what causes a peptic ulcer - #26843
I am trying to figure out what causes a peptic ulcer because for the past couple months, I’ve been having these awful stomach pains. It started kinda mild but now it feels like a constant gnawing in my stomach, and sometimes I even have heartburn that just won't quit. I keep thinking about what causes a peptic ulcer since my grandma had one years ago, and she always said it was no joke. I went to see my doctor who did a few tests, and they mentioned something about H. pylori and also talked about how certain medications can mess things up too. I’ve been taking ibuprofen for my back pain, like, every other day, and now I can't help but wonder if that’s what is causing this! Should I really be considering what causes a peptic ulcer or is it something else? I read that stress can also play a role, and I’ve been under a lot of pressure at work lately. I just want to get to the bottom of this and find out whether it’s really what causes a peptic ulcer or if it’s something different. Any insights would be a huge help!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Peptic ulcers commonly develop in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine, and there are a few major culprits to consider. H. pylori infection and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are the leading causes. The bacteria H. pylori can disrupt the mucus layer that protects the stomach lining, leading to ulcer formation. It’s important to confirm infection through a breath, stool, or blood test because eradication with antibiotics can heal the ulcer and prevent complications. Regular use of NSAIDs can irritate the stomach lining and inhibit the body’s natural defenses against stomach acid, increasing ulcer risk. If you’re taking ibuprofen frequently for back pain, it might indeed be contributing to your symptoms. Consider speaking with your doctor about alternative pain management strategies or using a medication known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) if NSAID use is unavoidable. These can reduce stomach acid production, allowing ulcers to heal. As per stress, while once considered a significant cause of ulcers, current evidence denotes it more likely exacerbates symptoms rather than directly causing ulcers. Reducing stress via techniques such as mindfulness or physical activity can still improve overall stomach health. Stay vigilant for symptoms like severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, or black stools, as these may indicate ulcer complications and require urgent medical attention. Always consult with your healthcare provider about any changes to your medication or new treatments, as they can offer the most personalized advice given your specific circumstances and symptoms.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.