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ULCER, PEPTIC (Duodenal Ulcer; Gastric Ulcer)
MDAdvice.com Home Health Library Illnesses/Conditions General Information DEFINITION An ulcer is a small erosion in the gastrointestinal tract. The most common type, duodenal, occurs in the first 12 inches of small intestine beyond the stomach. Ulcers that form in the stomach are called gastric ulcers. An ulcer is not contagious or cancerous. Duodenal ulcers are almost always benign, while stomach ulcers may become malignant. BODY PARTS INVOLVED Gastrointestinal tract. SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED Both sexes (duodenal more common in males); all ages, but most common in adults.
A burning, boring or gnawing feeling that lasts 30 minutes to 3 hours (often interpreted as heartburn, indigestion or hunger). Pain is usually in the upper abdomen, but occasionally below the breastbone. Pain occurs in some persons immediately after eating; in others, it may not occur until hours later. It frequently awakens one at night. Pain comes and goes. Weeks of intermittent pain may alternate with pain-free periods. Pain may be relieved by drinking milk, eating, resting or taking antacids. - Appetite and weight loss (with duodenal, may be weight gain, as person eats more to ease discomfort).
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