Stomach ulcers can be very painful and in rare cases can cause fatal complications.
They can have a range of symptoms that some people could pass off as simple indigestion so it is important to be aware of all the signs and if they are happening frequently. The most common causes of ulcers are the bacteria H. pylori, which is usually harmless but can cause ulcers in some and also anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen can cause an ulcer, particularly if taken over a long period of time or in high doses.
There is no substantial evidence that lifestyle choices, such as spicy foods, alcohol or stress, cause ulcers, but they can worsen symptoms. If an ulcer is suspected, a breath, blood or stool test can be carried out to check the presence of the H. pylori bacteria.
