Peptic ulcers are holes in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine (duodenum) that extend deep into the muscular layers of these organs. An ulcer forms when surface cells become inflamed, die, and are shed. The damage can be caused by mechanical abrasion, infection, or inflammation, which results from an overreaction of immune cells.
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is responsible for over three million visits to the doctor per year in the United States. Stomach pain similar to heartburn or indigestion is the most prevalent symptom of a stomach ulcer. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, blood in the stool, or anemia.
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