Ulcers
Roughly 1 in 10 Americans will experience a gastric or peptic ulcer at least once in their lifetime. Ulcers are a pain that is impossible to disregard, even if it is a dull, burning sensation throughout the abdomen. Although antacids may relieve the pain for a short while, it will soon return.
Peptic ulcers are common and are found in the lining around the stomach or at the beginning of the small intestine. Aside from pain, symptoms include poor appetite, burping, bloating, and weight loss. Pain will worsen when lying down.
Contrary to popular assumption, ulcers are not caused by stress—though stress can be a factor. In fact, ulcers occur when the stomach is creating excessive amounts of acid. You may also be taking medications that affect the stomach or have a bacterial infection caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. plyori). Some drugs like NSAIDs are known to cause ulcers. Heavy alcohol consumption and smoking are also culprits.
