A gastric ulcer is a small ulcer formed in the inner layer of the stomach. They are usually caused by Helicobacter pylori. Gastric ulcers may also be due to frequent or prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, a group of drugs that help reduce pain and inflammation. Both of these will destroy the fragile inner layer of the stomach, making it more susceptible to the damaging effects of stomach acid. The most common symptom of gastric ulcers is abdominal burning, which improves as food increases. Other symptoms or signs such as bleeding, nausea, vomiting and weight loss may also occur.
The doctor offered a glass of water to a woman who was holding her stomach painfully (Source: michaeljung / iStock / Getty Images ) If you have severe pain in your abdomen, seek emergency medical attention if you notice blood in the stool or black tar-like stool, or if you are vomiting blood. If you are losing weight, continue to feel sick or vomiting, or have pain while eating, call your doctor. Consult your doctor about risk factors for stomach ulcers, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a family history of gastric ulcers, or long-term use of NSAIDs.
