*🩺 STOMACH ULCERS (Peptic Ulcers) – Know the Basics* *📍 What is an Ulcer?* An *ulcer* is an open sore that forms in the *lining of the stomach*, *upper small intestine (duodenum)*, or *esophagus* due to damage from stomach acid. --- *⚠️ Causes:* - *H. pylori* bacterial infection - Long-term use of NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen) - Smoking, alcohol, stress - Spicy foods (don’t cause, but can worsen) --- *💢 Symptoms:* - Burning stomach pain (often between meals or at night) - Bloating, nausea - Heartburn or indigestion - Dark, tarry stools (bleeding ulcer) --- *🧪 Diagnosis:* - Endoscopy - H. pylori testing (blood, stool, or breath test) --- *💊 Treatment:* - *Antibiotics* (if H. pylori is present) - *Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)* – reduce acid - *Antacids* for relief - Avoid NSAIDs and trigger foods --- *✅ Prevention Tips:* - Avoid long-term NSAID use - Don’t skip meals - Limit alcohol & quit smoking - Manage stress - Treat H. pylori early