09/09/2023
PEPTIC ULCERS
DEFINITION
Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your esophagus, stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is abdominal pain.
Peptic ulcers include:
Gastric ulcers that occur on the inside of the stomach
Esophageal ulcers that occur inside the hollow tube (esophagus) that carries food from your throat to your stomach
Duodenal ulcers that occur on the inside of the upper portion of your small intestine (duodenum)
It's a myth that spicy foods or a stressful job can cause peptic ulcers. Doctors now know that a bacterial infection or some medications — not stress or diet — cause most peptic ulcers.