Stomach Ulcers & Acid Peptic Disorder (Bengaluru)

Understanding Stomach & Peptic Ulcers

Stomach ulcers (gastric ulcers) and duodenal ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. When the protective mucus layer in your digestive tract is eroded by acidic digestive fluids, painful sores can form.

H. pylori infection and use of NSAID painkillers are the two most common causes of peptic ulcers. A clinician can help establish the cause and suitable treatment.

Common Symptoms

• Burning Stomach Pain: Dull, gnawing ache in the middle or upper abdomen, often worse between meals or at night.
• Bloating & Indigestion: Sensation of early fullness, acid reflux, or painful indigestion after eating.
• Nausea & Heartburn: Persistent sour taste, regurgitation, or morning nausea.
• Warning Signs: Dark/tarry stools, vomiting blood, or unexplained weight loss requiring urgent clinical evaluation.

Diagnostic & Treatment Approach

Effective management begins with pinpointing the root cause:

• H. Pylori Testing: Breath tests, stool tests, or mucosal biopsy during upper GI endoscopy.
• Upper GI Endoscopy (OGD): Visual examination of the stomach and duodenum to assess ulcer size, depth, and exclude pre-malignant lesions.
• Targeted Medical Therapy: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), mucosal protectants, and antibiotic eradication regimens.
• Surgical or endoscopic treatment may be considered for complications such as bleeding, perforation or obstruction. The appropriate team and approach depend on the findings.