A constant burning or gnawing pain in the upper belly isn’t something to ignore. That pain can be a gastric ulcer — a sore in the stomach lining that makes eating, sleeping, and daily life harder. Most ulcers are treatable, but you need the right test and treatment plan so the sore heals and doesn’t come back.
The two main causes are an infection called H. pylori and regular use of NSAID painkillers (like ibuprofen or naproxen). Smoking and heavy alcohol use make ulcers worse and slow healing. Stress and spicy food don’t cause ulcers by themselves, but they can make symptoms feel worse.
Watch for: burning or aching pain between your breastbone and belly button, bloating, belching, nausea, loss of appetite, or losing weight without trying. Serious signs that need urgent care are black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, fainting, or sudden severe belly pain. If you see any of those, get medical help right away.
If your doctor suspects an ulcer, they may order a breath or stool test for H. pylori. Those are quick and accurate. Sometimes an upper endoscopy is needed — a thin scope goes down your throat so the doctor can look at the stomach and take a small biopsy if needed. Endoscopy is the best way to rule out complications or other conditions.
Treatment depends on the cause. For H. pylori, doctors use a short course of two antibiotics plus a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to cut acid and help the lining heal. If NSAIDs caused the ulcer, stopping them usually helps; your doctor can suggest safer pain options. PPIs (omeprazole, esomeprazole) are the main medicines to reduce acid and allow healing. H2 blockers and antacids can help with symptoms, but PPIs are stronger for healing.
Simple steps at home speed recovery: stop smoking, limit alcohol, avoid heavy use of NSAIDs, eat regular small meals, and avoid foods that trigger your pain. Finish the full course of antibiotics if you’re treated for H. pylori. Your doctor may repeat the breath or stool test after treatment to confirm the infection is gone.
Got mild symptoms? See a clinician rather than guessing at home remedies. If symptoms are severe or you notice bleeding, head to the emergency room. For reliable information on medicines and safe ways to get prescriptions, check Medzino's guides and talk to your healthcare team before changing any treatment.
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