STOMACH ULCERS
A CASE TODAY
Stomach ulcers are sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. They occur when the protective mucus that lines the stomach becomes ineffective.
Symptoms
The classic symptom of a stomach ulcer is indigestion, also called dyspepsia.
Indigestion causes pain or discomfort in the stomach area. This symptom can be mistaken for heartburn, which can occur at the same time.
Heartburn can be caused by acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
It occurs slightly higher up from the stomach and is felt in the lower part of the chest.
It is worth noting that not all stomach ulcers cause indigestion.
Stomach ulcer symptoms tend to be more distinct than heartburn, but symptoms can still be vague.
An ulcer tends to produce a burning or dull pain in the stomach area. This pain is sometimes described as a "biting" or "gnawing" pain. Some people may describe a hungry sensation.
Other symptoms include:
weight loss
nausea and vomiting
not eating because of pain
burping
bloating
pain may be relieved by eating, drinking, or taking antacids