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Peptic Ulcer Disease
Many people who have peptic ulcers may not seek medical attention when their symptoms begin. Their symptoms, such as belly pain, may come and go for some time and may alternate with pain-free periods. Even without treatment, some ulcers will heal by themselves.
And even with treatment, some ulcers may come back. Certain factors such as cigarette smoking and continued use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increase the risk of ulcer recurrence.
Sometimes ulcers can cause complications, such as bleeding, perforation, penetration, or obstruction.
Most peptic ulcers without complications heal, regardless of the cause. But an ulcer is likely to come back if you have an H. pylori infection that is not successfully treated. Recurring ulcers caused by reinfection with H. pylori are not common in the United States, except in areas that are overcrowded or have poor sanitation.
If you have a history of ulcers, taking NSAIDs regularly raises your chances of getting another ulcer. If you stop using these medicines, you can reduce your chances of getting another ulcer.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: February 24, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology | |
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