Peptic Ulcer: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as stomach ulcer, ulcer.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach or upper intestine, usually caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or regular use of common painkillers — not simply by hunger or pepper, though both can worsen the pain. It is very treatable once properly diagnosed.
Symptoms
Burning or gnawing upper abdominal pain
Pain related to meals — sometimes relieved, sometimes worsened by food
Night-time stomach pain
Bloating and belching
Nausea
Poor appetite or early fullness
Causes & risk factors
Helicobacter pylori infection
Frequent use of NSAID painkillers (common in self-medication)
Smoking and heavy alcohol use
Severe physical stress from illness
Treatment & self-care
Doctors typically test for H. pylori and treat it with a prescribed combination of antibiotics plus acid-reducing tablets, which heals most ulcers permanently. Stop NSAID painkillers unless a doctor says otherwise, reduce alcohol and smoking, and eat regular meals. Long-term antacid self-medication without diagnosis hides serious disease.
See a doctor urgently if
Vomiting blood or material like coffee grounds
Black, tarry stools
Sudden severe abdominal pain (possible perforation)
Unintended weight loss or difficulty swallowing
Ulcer pain persisting despite treatment
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Peptic Ulcer?
Early signs often include burning or gnawing upper abdominal pain, pain related to meals — sometimes relieved, sometimes worsened by food, night-time stomach pain. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Peptic Ulcer be treated?
Doctors typically test for H. pylori and treat it with a prescribed combination of antibiotics plus acid-reducing tablets, which heals most ulcers permanently. Stop NSAID painkillers unless a doctor says otherwise, reduce alcohol and smoking, and eat regular meals. Long-term antacid self-medication without diagnosis hides serious disease.
When should I see a doctor about Peptic Ulcer?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: vomiting blood or material like coffee grounds; black, tarry stools; sudden severe abdominal pain (possible perforation); unintended weight loss or difficulty swallowing; ulcer pain persisting despite treatment.