A peptic ulcer is an open sore that develops on the inside lining of the stomach (a gastric ulcer), or the small intestine (a duodenal ulcer). Both types of ulcers are also referred to as peptic ulcer disease.
The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is a burning or gnawing pain in the centre of the abdomen (stomach).
How common are peptic ulcers?
It is hard to accurately estimate exactly how common peptic ulcers are because in many people they do not cause any symptoms. However, a Swedish study that tested 1,000 adults at random found that four per cent of them had a peptic ulcer.
Peptic ulcers can affect people of any age, including children, but the condition is most common in people who are 60 years of age, or over. Both sexes are equally affected by peptic ulcers.
In the past, it was mistakenly thought that the main causes of peptic ulcers were lifestyle factors, such as diet, smoking, alcohol, and stress. While these factors may play a limited role, it is now known that the leading cause of peptic ulcers is a type of bacteria called H. pylori.
H. pylori can infect the stomach and small intestines and, in some people, the bacteria can irritate the inner layer of the stomach and small intestine, leading to the formation of an ulcer.
A group of painkillers known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include aspirin and ibuprofen, are the second most common cause of peptic ulcers. These types of painkillers can irritate the lining of the stomach and small intestine in some people, particularly if they are taken on a long-term basis.
Outlook
Since the link between peptic ulcers, H. pylori bacteria, and NSAIDs was discovered, treatment for peptic ulcers has become much more effective and the outlook is generally good.
Treatment for H. pylori associated peptic ulcers usually involves taking antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Following this treatment, only five per cent of people will experience another ulcer.
Treatment for NSAID associated peptic ulcers usually involves stopping using the NSAID before using medication to heal the ulcer. If withdrawing NSAID treatment is not possible, additional medication can be used to compensate for the effects of the NSAID.
Complications of peptic ulcers are serious but uncommon and include internal bleeding, which may require emergency surgery.