A gastric ulcer is an erosion in the tissues lining your stomach, the upper portion of your small bowel or your esophagus. Gastric ulcers are produced by inflammation from excessive stomach acid. Symptoms may include a burning abdominal pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and weight loss. Serious symptoms may include vomiting blood and and tarry, black stools. A gastric ulcer can be diagnosed by a blood test, an upper GI exam or an endoscopy. There are many factors that may contribute to a gastric ulcer.
Helicobacter pylori
H.pylori is a gastrointestinal bacteria that can cause an infection and ultimately an ulcer. While the bacteria is always present and frequently does not cause a problem, it can irritate your stomach lining.
Pain Relievers
Constant use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, Motrin and Advil can cause inflammation of your stomach which develops into an ulcer.
Smoking
Tobacco contains nicotine, which increases stomach acid and can lead to an ulcer. Smoking may hinder the healing of an ulcer.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumed excessively can increase your stomach acid, and may also irritate your stomach lining. If an ulcer is already present, consumption of alcohol can aggravate it.
Stress
Stress contributes to the development of gastric ulcers and can also slow the healing process.
Warnings
A gastric ulcer that is not treated can develop complications including internal bleeding, peritonitis (which is the infection of your abdominal cavity) and scar tissue that may eventually cause an obstruction.
