Gastric Ulcer (Stomach Ulcer; Ulcer, Gastric; Ulcer, Stomach)

A gastric ulcer is a sore in the lining of your stomach. Ulcers can be treated. A small percentage of them may be cancerous. See your doctor if you think you may have a gastric ulcer.

Causes   

Most gastric ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection. It is most often Helicobacter pylori. An ulcer may also be caused by the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Risk Factors   

Some factors thought to increase the risk of a gastric ulcer are:

    * Gender: male
    * Older age (the incidence of gastric ulcer peaks at age 50)
    * Regular use of pain medications
    * Smoking
    * High levels of stress
    * Lower socioeconomic status
    * Alcohol use
    * Acid reflux
    * Gastritis
    * Cirrhosis
    * Chronic kidney failure
    * Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
    * Use of steroid medications