An ulcer is a discontinuity or break in a bodily membrane that impedes the organ of which that membrane is a part from continuing its normal functions.Stomach ulcers, which are also known as gastric ulcers, are painful sores in the stomach lining. Stomach ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer disease. Peptic ulcers are any ulcers that affect both the stomach and small intestines.
Stomach ulcers occur when the thick layer of mucus that protects your stomach from digestive juices is reduced. This allows the digestive acids to eat away at the tissues that line the stomach, causing an ulcer.
Stomach ulcers may be easily cured, but they can become severe without proper treatment.
*Symptoms:
- Dull pain in the stomach
- Weight loss
- Not wanting to eat because of pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating
- Feeling easily full
- Burping or acid reflux
- Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
- Pain that may improve when you eat, drink, or take antacids
- Anemia (symptoms can include tiredness, shortness of breath, or paler skin)
- Dark, tarry stools
- Vomit that’s bloody or looks like coffee grounds.