Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pain like, in gastric ulcers ?
The characteristics of pain depend on the location and intensity of the ulcer. It is often presented as a burning sensation just below the sternum (breast bone). It may last from 30 minutes to about 3 hours and is likely to worsen on taking food. Sometimes the pain will be dull so it could be mistaken for hunger. Pain that improves on eating and increases at night may indicate a duodenal ulcer, ie, another type of peptic ulcer.
Is gastric ulcer curable ?
Yes, but the results vary greatly with the intensity and number of ulcers. Usually, with the right treatment, they heal within 4-6 weeks. But they are likely to recur if the cause is not identified and completely eradicated.
Is treatment necessary for stomach ulcers, or will they heal on their own ?
Some gastric ulcers, a few of them, will heal by themselves. And sometimes, the person won’t even notice. But that is not the case for all of them! The majority of ulcers in the stomach demand medical care. They may show symptoms for a long time if not carefully managed, and lead to various life-threatening complications.