Peptic Ulcer Disease: What Happens

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What Happens

Many people who have peptic ulcers may not seek medical attention when their symptoms begin. Their symptoms, such as belly pain, may come and go for some time and may alternate with pain-free periods. Even without treatment, some ulcers will heal by themselves.

And even with treatment, some ulcers may come back. Certain factors such as cigarette smoking and continued use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increase the risk of ulcer recurrence.

Sometimes ulcers can cause complications, such as bleeding, perforation, penetration, or obstruction. Complications are more common with stomach (gastric) ulcers than with upper intestinal (duodenal) ulcers.

Most peptic ulcers without complications heal, regardless of the cause. But an ulcer is likely to come back if you have an H. pylori infection that is not successfully treated. Recurring ulcers caused by reinfection with H. pylori are not common in the United States, except in areas that are overcrowded or have poor sanitation.

If you have a history of ulcers, taking NSAIDs regularly raise your chances of developing another ulcer. If you stop using these medicines, you can reduce your chances of getting another ulcer.¹

Last updated:	January 07, 2008
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Andrew H. Soll, MD - Gastroenterology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC