Stomach ulcer is also commonly termed as peptic ulcer. It is occurrence of small erosion in gastrointestinal tract. Duodenal ulcer that occurs in the initial part of the stomach is a common type. Ulcers found in the stomach are known as gastric ulcers. Usually ulcers are not cancerous neither contagious. Stomach ulcers can affect people of all ages. Stomach ulcers may be result of certain other diseases like Mastocytosis. Bleeding caused by ulcers may lead to anemia.

Causes behind Stomach Ulcers
Destruction of intestinal mucosal stomach lining, due to hydrochloric acid, is considered as main cause behind stomach ulcers. Bacterium Helicobacter pylori also plays its role in occurrence of duodenal and gastric ulcers. H-Poly can be transmitted from one person to another through water and food. Antibiotics are best treatment for ulcers caused by H-poly.

Injuries sustained by stomach mucosal lining and weak mucous defenses are attributable for gastric ulcers. Psychological stress, increase in hydrochloric acid and genetic predisposition also contributes towards developing of duodenal ulcers. Use of anti-inflammatory medicines for prolonged periods and cigarette smoking are other causes.

Stomach Ulcer Symptoms
Burning or gnawing sensation in stomach that lasts for half an hour and three hours is major symptom. Such pain is described as hunger, heartburn or indigestion. Though upper abdomen is common site it may occur below breastbone. Some people experience the pain immediately after taking meals but some may not feel it even after hours. In some cases the pain awakens the people at night. One may get relief from such pains after drinking milk, resting, taking antacids or eating.
Loss of appetite and loss in weight are other common symptoms. People suffering from duodenal ulcers eat more to achieve comfort this may lead to weight gain. Occurrence of blood with stools, recurrent vomiting and anemia are some of the other symptoms.

Complications of Stomach Ulcers
Stomach ulcers affect the surrounding nerves which lead to nerves becoming agitated. These agitated nerves produce severe pains. Stomach ulcers may result in hemorrhages from the erosion of larger blood vessel, tearing wall of intestine or stomach, this could lead to occurrence of peritonitis or blockage of gastrointestinal tract. Swelling or spasm produced by the tearing of wall results in obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract.

Risk Factors of Ulcers
Following factors may play major role in development of ulcers.

• People with family history of ulcers
• Prolonged use of medications like corticosteroids and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, like aspirin
• Smoking cigarettes, excessive consumption of alcohol
• Skipping meals, irregular or improper diet
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Chronic disorders like emphysema, rheumatoid arthritis, liver disease can make you vulnerable to development of ulcers
• Stress is not directly responsible for onset of ulcers but can be a contributing factor.

• More than 20 million people from United States experience ulcers at least once in their life.
• More than 4 million Americans get affected by ulcers every year
• More than 6 thousands deaths are reported in America attributable to ulcers-associated complications
• About 40,000 Americans undergo surgery every year for their recurrent ulcer problems.