Ulcers are sores that form in the lining of the digestive tract. Digestive ulcers are mostly found in the stomach and duodenum, and they can affect both men and women. The primary cause of ulcers is bacterial infection by Helicobacter pylori (H.

pylori) and prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Other factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, and a family history of ulcers. The symptoms of digestive ulcers vary depending on the location of the ulcer and its severity.

If left untreated, ulcers can lead to bleeding, perforation, and even cancer. In this article, we will discuss the most common signs of digestive ulcers.

Burning Abdominal Pain

The most common symptom of an ulcer is a burning sensation in the upper abdomen. This pain is usually felt in the area between the belly button and the breastbone. The pain may come and go, but it is often worse at night or on an empty stomach.

Eating or taking antacids may relieve the pain temporarily. However, the pain usually returns after a few hours. If you experience persistent abdominal pain, you should see your doctor immediately.

Nausea and Vomiting

Another common symptom of ulcers is nausea and vomiting. This occurs when the stomach acid irritates the lining of the digestive tract and triggers the vomiting reflex.

Nausea and vomiting are more likely to occur in the morning, on an empty stomach, or after eating spicy or fatty foods. If you experience frequent vomiting, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

Ulcers can also cause a loss of appetite and weight loss. This occurs when the pain and discomfort of the ulcer make it difficult to eat or when the body’s metabolism is disrupted by the infection or inflammation.

If you notice a sudden and significant loss of weight without changing your diet or exercise routine, you should talk to your doctor.

Bloody or Black Stools

Bleeding is a serious complication of ulcers that can lead to black or bloody stools. The blood from the ulcer combines with the digestive juices and turns the stools black and tarry.

In some cases, fresh blood may appear in the stool as bright red or maroon-colored streaks. If you notice any changes in your stool color or consistency, you should see your doctor immediately.

Bloating and Belching

Ulcers can also cause bloating, belching, and flatulence. This occurs when the stomach acid and gas build up inside the digestive tract and create pressure. The bloating and belching may be more pronounced after eating or drinking.

If you experience frequent bloating or belching, you should see your doctor.

Heartburn and Reflux

Heartburn and reflux are also common symptoms of ulcers. This occurs when the stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and irritates the lining.

The heartburn is usually felt in the chest and may be accompanied by a sour taste or burning sensation in the throat. If you experience frequent heartburn or reflux, you should see your doctor.

Chest Pain

In rare cases, ulcers can cause chest pain. This occurs when the ulcer penetrates the diaphragm and irritates the nerves that supply the chest. The chest pain may be mistaken for a heart attack or angina.

If you experience chest pain, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Difficulty Swallowing

Ulcers in the esophagus can cause difficulty swallowing. This occurs when the ulcer narrows the passage and makes it hard for food and liquid to pass through. The difficulty swallowing may be more pronounced with solid foods or large pills.

If you experience difficulty swallowing, you should see your doctor.

Feeling Full Quickly

Ulcers can also cause a feeling of fullness or bloating after eating. This occurs when the ulcer reduces the capacity of the stomach or delays the emptying of food into the small intestine.

The feeling of fullness may be more pronounced with fatty or greasy foods. If you experience frequent bloating or fullness, you should see your doctor.

Unexplained Fatigue

In some cases, ulcers can cause unexplained fatigue and weakness. This occurs when the body’s immune system is activated by the infection or inflammation. The fatigue may be more pronounced in the morning or after physical activity.

If you experience persistent fatigue, you should talk to your doctor.

Conclusion

Ulcers are a common digestive problem that can cause a range of symptoms, from burning abdominal pain to unexplained fatigue. If you have any of the symptoms listed above, you should see your doctor immediately.

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and improve your quality of life.