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There are two different types of peptic ulcers. They are:
Both types of peptic ulcers are most commonly caused either by infection with Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori) bacteria or by frequent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
The symptoms of gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers are similar, except for when pain occurs.
Symptoms alone cannot be used to distinguish a gastric ulcer from a duodenal ulcer. Tests such as an endoscopy or an upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series may need to be used to find out the location of an ulcer.
Gastric ulcers often heal more slowly than duodenal ulcers. A gastric ulcer that does not respond to treatment could be cancer. Your doctor will most likely recommend a biopsy of a gastric ulcer before beginning treatment. The biopsy will make sure there is no cancer hiding in the ulcer.
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise StaffMedical Review: E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal MedicineAnne C. Poinier MD - Internal MedicineAdam Husney MD - Family MedicineJerome B. Simon MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Jerome B. Simon MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
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