People who smoke are more likely to develop ulcers. In addition, their ulcers are less likely to heal because smoking retards the body’s healing ability.
People who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, are at risk because these drugs can irritate stomach lining. People over 75 are most susceptible to developing a stomach ulcer from use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
People with ulcers in their family history are at a higher risk of developing stomach ulcers.
Regular consumption of alcohol increases the risk of developing a stomach ulcer.
People who are weakened by other illness are more susceptible to the development of stomach ulcers.
People who are infected with Helicobacter pylori bacterium often develop stomach ulcers.
What Symptoms of a Stomach Ulcer are easily Observable?
Symptoms of a stomach ulcer vary between individuals, and some individuals may not exhibit symptoms. Here are some symptoms of a stomach ulcer that it may be possible to observe:
Reoccurring and persistent abdominal pain, where the pain comes and goes over a period of time, can be the result of an ulcer. This pain usually occurs between meals or at night in the upper or middle stomach, and can also occur in the back. It may last for minutes or hours. Severe pain can indicate a severe condition.
Heartburn can result from acid reflux from the stomach.
Bloating, belching, nausea, or vomiting may occur, especially after meals.
Blood in your stool, appearing as dark or black stool, is a severe symptom that indicates bleeding.
Weight loss can result from loss of appetite and general discomfort.