Abdominal discomfort is the most common symptom of ulcers. This discomfort usually:

• Is a dull, gnawing ache.
• Comes and goes for several days or weeks.
• Occurs 2 to 3 hours after a meal.
• Occurs in the middle of the night, when the stomach is empty.
• Is relieved by eating.
• Is relieved by antacid medications.

Other Symptoms of Ulcers

Other symptoms of ulcers include:

• Weight loss
• Poor appetite
• Bloating
• Burping
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Some people experience only very mild symptoms, or none at all.

Emergency Symptoms of Ulcers

If you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away.

• Sharp, sudden, persistent stomach pain.
• Bloody or black stools.
• Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

NOTE:
Emergency symptoms could be signs of a serious problem, such as:

• Perforation, when the ulcer burrows through the stomach or duodenal wall.
• Bleeding, when acid or the ulcer breaks a blood vessel.
• Obstruction, when the ulcer blocks the path of food trying to leave the stomach.

For more information about Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and ulcers, see your health care provider or call Toll Free 1-888-MY-ULCER.

Source: digestive.niddk.nih.gov