Ulcers are sores in the lining of the digestive tract, according to the National Institutes of Health. They can affect the esophagus, stomach and small intestine and, according to the Mayo Clinic, as many as 10 percent of the population will be affected at some time in their lives. When ulcers occur in the abdomen they are known as gastric ulcers, stomach ulcers or peptic ulcers. Peptic ulcers occur when the stomach acid, which normally aids in the digestion of food, damages the lining of the stomach. Bacteria is usually the cause of ulcers, with food and stress increasing symptom development. Successful treatment is possible.
Pain
According to the Mayo Clinic, abdominal pain is the most common symptom with a stomach ulcer. The pain, caused by stomach acid coming into contact with the ulcerated area, The pain, which starts in the stomach region, can radiate up throughout the abdomen. It can last for a few hours or a few minutes. The pain may be worse at night and when the stomach is empty. The pain may be relieved by eating as the food may block the acid from coming into contact with the ulcer.
Vomiting
Vomiting can also occur in gastric ulcers, according to the Mayo Clinic. The vomit may be tinged with blood, having a red or black color. Burping more frequently than usual may also be caused by a gastric ulcer, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Bloody vomit or vomit with a coffee-ground appearance could indicate a severe condition in which the ulcer has perforated the wall of the stomach or a blood vessel has broken and should be evaluated by medical professional immediately.
Appetite Changes
Stomach ulcers can also be accompanied by appetite changes, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Constantly feeling nauseous or feeling sick to the stomach is possible. A poor appetite can also occur. Unintentional weight loss can accompany these appetite changes due to lack of dietary intake.
