What is the difference between a duodenal ulcer and a gastric ulcer?

A peptic ulcer is a sore on the lining of your stomach or the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). If the ulcer is in your stomach, it is called a gastric ulcer. If the ulcer is in your duodenum, it is called a duodenal ulcer. Ulcers are fairly common.

What causes ulcers in stomach and duodenum?

A duodenal ulcer is usually caused by an infection with a germ (bacterium) called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). A 4- to 8-week course of acid-suppressing medication will allow the ulcer to heal. In addition, a one-week course of two antibiotics plus an acid-suppressing medicine will usually clear the H.

What are the two types of stomach ulcers?

There are two different types of peptic ulcers. They are: Gastric ulcers, which form in the lining of the stomach. Duodenal ulcers, which form in the upper small intestine.

What is the most reliable symptom of duodenal ulcer?

The most common complaint is a burning pain in the stomach. Duodenal ulcers may also cause abdominal pain a few hours after eating. This pain tends to respond well to medications or foods that reduce stomach acid, but as the effects of these wear off, the pain usually returns.

Which ulcer is worse with food?

Stomach ulcers often are not consistent. For example, eating sometimes will make the pain worse rather than better with certain types of ulcers, such as pyloric channel ulcers, which are often associated with bloating, nausea and vomiting, symptoms of a blockage caused by swelling (edema) and scarring.

What does duodenal ulcer pain feel like?

Ulcer pain feels like burning or gnawing inside your stomach, which is between your breastbone and your belly button. It may improve temporarily when you eat or drink or when you take an antacid, medication to reduce stomach acid.

What are 3 causes of ulcers?

Risk factors

  • Smoke. Smoking may increase the risk of peptic ulcers in people who are infected with H. pylori.
  • Drink alcohol. Alcohol can irritate and erode the mucous lining of your stomach, and it increases the amount of stomach acid that’s produced.
  • Have untreated stress.
  • Eat spicy foods.

Why do duodenal ulcers hurt at night?

Duodenal ulcers tend to cause abdominal pain that comes on several hours after eating (often during the night); this is due to the presence of acid in the stomach without a food “buffer.” Eating or taking an antacid or an acid-reducing medication may relieve symptoms.