How to Recognize Symptoms of an Ulcer

An ulcer is a sore that forms in the lining of the stomach. It may also form in the upper portion of the small intestine. Ulcers are very common and affect a large portion of the population. It has been thought that ulcers may have many causes including stress, smoking, eating certain foods, consuming large amounts of alcohol or caffeine or by taking certain medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Recent studies have shown that most ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection. Although the suspected causes listed above may not directly cause ulcers they may still be factors that play a role in the development of an ulcer or at the very least an irritant to the ulcer that has formed. Although ulcers can affect anyone of any age they most often affect people age 40 or older. It is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of an ulcer in order to seek proper medical diagnosis and treatment.

Instructions

• 1

  Notice whether stomach pain occurs between the breastbone and navel area. This pain may occur shortly after eating a meal, first thing in the morning or late at night. The pain may also be accompanied by a burning sensation. The pain may come on suddenly and appear to be a sharp, stabbing type of pain.

• 2

  Observe whether the pain is accompanied by nausea and or vomiting. These symptoms may occur together, separate or without being accompanied by pain as well.

• 3

  Notice whether there is a loss of appetite. A person suffering from an ulcer may become full quickly when eating a meal or may not have much of an appetite in the first place.

• 4

  Monitor weight loss closely. If there is a decrease in appetite the affected individual may also suffer weight loss. Weigh yourself regularly to notice whether there is a decrease in weight.

• 5

  Observe whether there is frequent belching. This may occur even when the individual is not eating or has not consumed any food recently. Frequent belching can be a sign of ulcer as well as other gastrointestinal disorders.

• 6

  Notice the appearance of the stool. Blood may be present in the bowel movements. The stool may have a black appearance or may resemble the appearance of tar. Such bowel movements may indicate the presence of an ulcer.

• 7

  Take an antacid when experiencing the above symptoms. An antacid often provides temporary relief of symptoms associated with an ulcer which may very well indicate the presence of an ulcer.