Signs and Symptoms

Stomach pain is the most common symptom of an ulcer. It usually feels like sharp aches

between the breastbone and the belly button. This pain often comes a few hours after eating.

It can also happen during the night or early in the morning, when the stomach is empty.

Eating something or taking an antacid medication sometimes makes the pain go away for awhile.

Other symptoms of ulcers can include:

* loss of appetite
* sudden, sharp stomach pains
* nausea
* frequent burping or hiccuping
* weight loss
* vomiting (if blood is in the vomit or the vomit looks like coffee grounds, which only

happens with severe ulcers, call a doctor right away)
* bloody or blackish bowel movements (this could indicate a serious problem, so call a

doctor right away if you see this)

Anyone who thinks he or she may have an ulcer needs to see a doctor. Over time, untreated

ulcers grow larger and deeper and can lead to other problems, such as bleeding in the

digestive system or a hole in the wall of the stomach or duodenum, which can make someone

very sick.