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Center For Digestive Disorders
What Causes Ulcers?
In the past fifteen years, it has been determined that ulcers are most commonly caused by infection
with a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). It resides in the stomach and causes an
inflammation of the stomach (gastritis). Although a very large number of individuals, particulary
those over the age of fifty, are infected with this germ, in most individuals is does not cause any
harm or any symptoms. In only a small proportion, less than five percent, will ulcers develop.
Currently, it is recommended that antibiotics be used to treat this infection if it is associated with
a proven peptic ulcer. In addition to H. pylori, one of the most common causes of ulcers is the use of
aspirin and a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These latter drugs
include prescription medication, such as Motrin‘ and Naprosyn‘, as well as over-the-counter medications
such as Advil‘ and Aleve‘. Tylenol‘ and other forms of acetaminophen do not cause ulcers, but their use
in very large doses, or in combination with alcohol, can lead to liver damage. It is also important to
realize that certain medications that one can purchase without prescription, such as Alka-Seltzer‘,
Goody Powder‘ and Standback‘, also contain aspirin and can lead to serious damage to the stomach.
Finally, a significant proportion of individuals develop ulcers without infection with H. pylori or without
consuming NSAIDs. If you are experiencing pain in the center of the abdomen below the rib cage, it is
advisable to see a gastroenterologist to determine whether or not you do have an ulcer.
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