Peptic ulcer

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Ulcers are sores or holes in the lining of an organ. They look like small, red craters. Peptic ulcer is the collective name for duodenal ulcers or gastric (stomach) ulcers.

The stomach produces acid to break down food during the digestive process. The stomach and upper part of the small intestine (duodenum), are protected from the acid by a lining of sticky fluid (mucus). If this lining is damaged, the sensitive tissue underneath is exposed to acid. Irritation of the wall tissue in the stomach and duodenum may cause an ulcer to form.

Duodenal ulcers are more common than gastric ulcers and usually occur in people aged 20 to 45, particularly men. Gastric ulcers are more common in people over the age of 50.

Approximately 1 in 8 people in the UK develop a peptic ulcer at some time in their lives.

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