Stomach or Gastric Ulcer Symptoms and Signs

What are some common gastric ulcer symptoms and signs?

Gastric ulcers are typically caused by an imbalance between the stomach acid pepsin (which is an enzyme) and the stomach lining's natural defenses (mucous), or the bacteria, Helicobacter pyloria.

This imbalance can lead to inflammation and can be made worse by the use of aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol used for the relief of various aches and / or joint pain.

The stomach plays an important role within the systems of the body, not only in digestion but in overall immunity as well. Damage to the stomach lining may cause uncomfortable symptoms ranging from mild to severe and often confused as being acid indigestion.

Under normal circumstances, mucous called prostaglandins are produced by the stomach's lining to protect its delicate cells from the acids that are formed during food digestion, but such factors as age, infection, and / or smoking interrupts the fine balance of the stomach and can lead to the formation of sores in the lining.

So what are some gastric ulcer symptoms?

Sufferers complain of a burning sensation that can present symptoms anywhere within the space between the navel and the breastbone. It is an unrelenting discomfort that can last for several days. It is probably the most common gastric ulcer symptom in the weakening of the stomach lining that is caused by the stomach's acid making contact with the damaged area.

Studies now show that stress is not the cause nor does it worsen an ulcerous condition. It does, however, cause an increase in the production of gastric acid secretions, which in turn aggravates the stomach lining with burning or heartburn type discomfort.

Stomach or gastric ulcer symptoms can be varying. Many are similar to the signs and symptoms of other gastro-intestinal disorders, including upper abdominal pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea and bloating, burping, weakness due to loss of bodily fluids, and / or vomiting.

Other gastric ulcer symptoms such as dark stools, vomiting blood, or abdominal pain that is often worsened after eating are common with ulcers that are developing complications. Sufferers often experience heightened symptoms, such as pain or hunger type pains, in the night hours (or when the stomach is empty), with acid-reducing medication or even food offering only temporary relief.

Some ulcer patients experience no discomfort at all, not even minimal indigestion, while others have pain that is persistent after their ulcer has been completely healed. Ulcers can come and go without an individual ever knowing, and he or she may find out only when a serious complication (bleeding, perforation or gastric obstruction) arises. This is particularly true with a bleeding ulcer. They manifest themselves with symptoms such as fatigue, blood in vomit or stools, dark or tarry stools, and / or weakness.

Ulcer pain can be confusing when it seems to radiate to the back or up under the chest behind the breast bone. It can even be confused with other conditions (heart attack and angina).

Because ulcers are well known for having hidden symptoms, like bleeding, for ulcer patients experiencing extended symptoms which persist, including anemia, shortness of breath and fatigue / weakness, it is important to see a physician.

Having read about gastric ulcer symptoms and signs, you can learn more about stomach ulcers by reading the other related ulcers articles and pages.

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