A peptic ulcer is a type of sore that develops in the digestive system.

These sores occur when the acids that help you digest food damage the walls of the stomach or duodenum, the first part of the small intestine immediately beyond the stomach.

The most common kinds of peptic ulcers are:

Gastric ulcers A common type of ulcer, these occur on the inside of the stomach.

Duodenal ulcers These are located at the beginning of the small intestine (called the small bowel or duodenum).

Esophageal ulcers These occur inside the esophagus (the tube that carries food from your throat to your stomach).

Many people with peptic ulcers don't have any signs, but upper abdominal pain is the most common symptom.

Other symptoms of peptic ulcers may include:

For a long time, it was believed that spicy foods or stress led to peptic ulcers — but doctors now know that this isn't the case.

In fact, the most common causes of ulcers are:

Certain factors can put a person at a greater risk of developing a peptic ulcer, including:

If your doctor suspects you might have a peptic ulcer, he will take a full medical history and perform a physical exam. Diagnostic tests you might take include:

Ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori heal when the bacteria is killed. The typical course of treatment includes two weeks of antibiotics along with acid-suppressing medicine. This is followed by an additional four to eight weeks of the acid-suppressing medicine alone.

It’s possible for an ulcer to heal temporarily without antibiotics, but it will likely recur or another one will form nearby if the bacteria is not killed.

Peptic ulcers caused by medication usually heal shortly after you stop taking the medication. Doctors typically recommend taking antacids for two to six weeks to assist with healing and relieve pain.

Your course of treatment will be based on what's causing the ulcer.

Possible drug treatments include antibiotics to kill Helicobacter pylori bacteria in your digestive tract.

Your doctor may also recommend antacids to neutralize stomach acid and reduce pain.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are drugs that block acid production and promote healing.

Acid reducers, also called H2 blockers, reduce acid production and relieve ulcer pain. These include:

Certain lifestyle changes can help you recover from an ulcer.

Using alternatives to NSAIDs, like acetaminophen, to relieve pain can help prevent peptic ulcers. If you need to use an NSAID, opt for the lowest dose and take it with a meal.

Peptic ulcers caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori are not usually preventable, but good hygiene such as washing your hands thoroughly before eating and after using the bathroom may help limit the spread.

Left untreated, peptic ulcers can result in severe complications and emergencies.

The signs that you are having an ulcer emergency are:

If you think you or someone you know is having an ulcer emergency, seek immediate medical attention.

American College of Gastroenterology (ACG)

The American College of Gastroenterology is a professional association of gastroenterologists and GI professionals. Its site offers an abundance of information on peptic ulcers, including information on diagnosis and treatment, as well as a glossary of medical terms associated with the condition.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

The NIDDK is a great resource to learn more about peptic ulcers. The site also offers advice on diet and nutrition and provides a link to search for clinical trials related to the condition.

Additional reporting by Cathy Cassata.

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