A gastric ulcer is a sore on the inner lining of your stomach. It develops when stomach acid erodes the protective mucus layer, leading to irritation and open wounds. Also called a stomach ulcer or peptic ulcer, it can cause discomfort and complications if left untreated.
Gastric ulcers often present with:
Several factors can damage the stomach lining and trigger ulcer formation:
At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gastric ulcers with a patient-centered approach. From prompt endoscopic evaluation to personalized diet and lifestyle counseling, our expert team is with you every step of the way. Enjoy same-day consultations, friendly staff who explain each step, and tailored treatment plans designed for long-term relief. Don't wait-book your appointment today and take the first step toward healing.
We've successfully treated more than 3.4K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
A gastric ulcer is an open sore on the inner lining of the stomach caused by an imbalance between stomach acid and protective mucus, often due to H. pylori infection or long-term NSAID use.
Gastric ulcers are most commonly caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, prolonged NSAID use (e.g., ibuprofen), excessive acid production, smoking, alcohol use, and stress that worsens acid levels.
Stress does not directly create ulcers but can increase stomach acid and slow healing, making existing ulcers worse or delaying recovery.
Yes. Pain from a gastric ulcer can radiate from the upper abdomen to the back, leading to discomfort or aching in the back area.
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, often without an open sore. A gastric ulcer is a distinct open sore that penetrates the lining, potentially causing more severe pain and complications.
Choose bland, low-fat, non-acidic foods such as oatmeal, rice, bananas, applesauce, lean poultry, fish, cooked vegetables, and whole-grain bread in small portions.
High-fiber fruits (bananas, apples), probiotics (low-fat yogurt, kefir), oatmeal, and lean protein sources support healing and reduce irritation.
With appropriate medication (proton-pump inhibitors, antacids, antibiotics for H. pylori) and dietary changes, most gastric ulcers heal within 4 to 8 weeks.
In horses, gastric ulcers are erosions or sores in the stomach lining caused by stress, high-grain diets, irregular feeding, or prolonged NSAID use.
Equine gastric ulcer signs include poor appetite, weight loss, behavioral changes, girth sensitivity, teeth grinding, and intermittent colic.
