A stomach ulcer is an open sore that develops in the lining of the stomach. Ulcers can also develop in the first part of the small intestine, where they are known as duodenal ulcers. Stomach and duodenal ulcers are often referred to as peptic ulcer disease. With the right diagnosis and treatment, most ulcers heal successfully.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Relevant Diagnostic Tests
Stomach ulcers can cause a range of digestive symptoms. Some people experience persistent discomfort, while others may have only mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Common symptoms you may experience:
Other symptoms you may notice
Some people also experience:
Stomach ulcers develop when the protective lining of the stomach becomes damaged, allowing stomach acid to irritate the tissue underneath.
Lifestyle & Dietary Triggers
While lifestyle factors are not usually the main cause of a stomach ulcer, they can sometimes increase your risk or make symptoms worse.
Potential triggers include:
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
This is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach lining. In some people, it weakens the stomach’s natural protective barriers, making ulcers more likely to develop. H. pylori is one of the most common causes of peptic ulcer disease.
Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. It can cause symptoms similar to those of a stomach ulcer, including pain, nausea and indigestion. In some cases, gastritis and ulcers can occur together.
Less Common or More Serious Conditions
Less commonly, ulcer symptoms may be associated with:
Many stomach ulcers respond well to treatment, but it’s important not to ignore persistent symptoms.
Red Flag Symptoms
It’s important to speak to a healthcare professional if you experience:
When to Seek Urgent Care
It’s important to contact NHS 111, seek urgent medical advice, or attend emergency services if you experience:
The good news is that stomach ulcers can usually be diagnosed and treated effectively once the underlying cause has been identified.
Initial consultation
During your appointment, your gastroenterologist may ask you about:
Diagnostic Tests & Procedures
Gastroscopy
A gastroscopy uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the oesophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine. It can help identify ulcers, inflammation, bleeding and other possible causes of symptoms.
H. pylori testing
Testing for H. pylori may involve:
Blood tests
Blood tests may be used to check for anaemia, infection, inflammation, or nutritional deficiencies.
Imaging scans
Although ulcers are usually diagnosed through gastroscopy, imaging tests may occasionally be used to investigate symptoms further or rule out other conditions.
If you’re looking for stomach ulcer treatment, the right approach depends on what caused the ulcer and whether any complications are present.
Self-Care & Lifestyle Changes
Alongside medical treatment, your specialist may recommend:
Medical & Prescription Treatments
Treatment may include:
Most ulcers heal successfully once the underlying cause has been treated.
Surgical & Specialist Interventions
Surgery is rarely needed, but it may occasionally be recommended if:
Living with ongoing stomach pain, indigestion, or ulcer symptoms can affect your comfort, confidence and quality of life. At Clarity, our experienced gastroenterologists provide prompt access to investigations and personalised treatment plans to help you find lasting relief.
Why Choose Us?
✅ Fast access to consultant gastroenterologists
✅ Advanced diagnostic testing and endoscopy services
✅ Comprehensive investigation of digestive symptoms
✅ Personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs
✅ Comfortable private facilities and ongoing support
As the first step in your private digestive health journey, Clarity Consult is an entirely FREE consultation.
This is designed to be a clear, consultant-led private pathway for patients experiencing digestive symptoms, with fast access, transparent costs and flexible appointments.
Keeping a record of your symptoms, medications, dietary triggers and previous test results can help your consultant gain a clearer understanding of your gastroenterological condition.
Stress alone is not usually considered a direct cause of stomach ulcers. But it may worsen symptoms and have an impact on recovery for some people.
Some ulcers may improve temporarily, but most require treatment to address the underlying cause and reduce the risk of complications. If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms, it’s worth speaking to a healthcare professional.
A gastric ulcer develops in the stomach lining, while a duodenal ulcer develops in the first part of the small intestine. Both are types of peptic ulcer disease and can cause similar symptoms.
The best stomach ulcer treatment depends on the underlying cause. Many ulcers are caused by H. pylori infection and are treated with antibiotics and acid-reducing medication. Ulcers linked to anti-inflammatory medications may improve once those medicines are stopped and the stomach lining is allowed to heal.
Take Control of Your Digestive Health Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a stomach ulcer, gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, or peptic ulcer disease, early assessment at Clarity can help identify the cause and get you started on the right treatment plan.
Speak with one of our specialist consultants for a prompt diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.