Is Your Stomach Burning?

You feel your stomach burning, your stomach feels full when you haven't eaten, and you are experiencing vomiting. You may have a peptic ulcer. A peptic ulcer is a sore which develops in the lining of the stomach or the upper intestine. An ulcer is actually an open sore which causes much pain. While there are various symptoms, perhaps the most common is burning in the stomach.

This sore or ulcer develops as a result of stomach acid which gradually erodes the stomach's lining. Many people have peptic ulcers without ever realizing it. There are stomach ulcers which develop and then heal themselves going undetected by the individual.

One may develop a peptic ulcer from taking over the counter medications such as ibuprofen, or diclofenac. In addition, those which smoke or drink may suffer with the condition. When someone is being treated for cancer, the effects of the radiation may cause them to develop peptic ulcers.

It is thought that an infection which is called heliobacter pylori is the cause for most peptic ulcers. Many think that stress can cause ulcers but studies are unclear. However, stress as well as eating many spicy foods can cause peptic ulcers to worsen. In addition when one has symptoms of a peptic ulcer they should see their doctor as the ulcer will get worse over a period of time.

It should be noted that a family history of peptic ulcers will raise ones chances of developing them. Those who have the blood type O have a greater chance of getting a ulcer.

When one has a peptic ulcer they may first experience the signs for a few days and the symptoms may come and go. One may notice that they experience more burning in their stomach when it is empty and when they eat the pain usually subsides. In addition, bland foods and milk may give relief. Many in years gone by believed that drinking milk was a good way to treat ulcers. However, today doctors feel that this could actually make matters worse.