Stomach ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain. The causes of stomach ulcers include:
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Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria: H. pylori bacteria commonly live in the mucous layer that covers and protects tissues that line the stomach and small intestine. Often, the H. pylori bacterium causes no problems, but it can cause inflammation of the stomachs inner layer, producing an ulcer.
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Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) can break down the stomachs defense against the acid it produces to digest food, allowing the stomach lining to become damaged and an ulcer to form.
Other factors that can contribute to the development of stomach ulcers include:
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Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing stomach ulcers and may make treatment less effective.
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Stress: There is little evidence that stress causes stomach ulcers, but it may make symptoms worse.
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Alcohol: There is little evidence that alcohol causes stomach ulcers, but it may make symptoms worse.
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Spicy foods: There is little evidence that spicy foods cause stomach ulcers, but they may make symptoms worse.
It is important to note that stress, spicy foods, and alcohol do not cause peptic ulcers. If you...
