Peptic ulcers occur when stomach acid erodes the protective mucus layer of the digestive tract, causing open sores in the stomach or upper small intestine. About three-quarters of people with peptic ulcers are asymptomatic, and symptoms can vary depending on the ulcer’s severity.

• Burning sensation/pain between the chest and navel (belly button) – the most common symptom. The pain is intermittent, lasting from a few minutes to a few hours. It may worsen between meals or wake you up at night. The pain can usually be relieved for a while by having certain foods that buffer stomach acid or by taking an antacid or acid reducer.
• Intermittent back pain lasting a few minutes to a few hours. May worsen between meals and disrupt sleep
• Dull pain in the stomach
• Poor appetite (due to pain) and weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Indigestion or bloating after a meal
• Feeling of “fullness” after a meal
• Fatty food intolerance
• Burping or acid reflux. Read more about the causes of acid reflux and the treatment available for it.

See a doctor if you experience any of the following:

• You have been diagnosed with an ulcer and experience symptoms of anemia like fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pale complexion, it may indicate bleeding from the ulcer.
• You have symptoms of an ulcer and develop serious back pain. This could mean your ulcer may be perforating the stomach
• You have symptoms of an ulcer such as vomiting blood or coffee-ground-like substance, or passing dark red or black stools resembling tar, it may indicate internal bleeding. Please seek immediate medical attention.
• You have an ulcer and become cold or feel faint, you could be in shock from massive blood loss. Please see a doctor immediately.