Can Helicobacter pylori infection cause peptic ulcer?

The stomach and the first part of the small intestine normally have protective barriers. Helicobacter pylori can trigger inflammation and interfere with these defences, allowing digestive acid to injure the lining. An ulcer may cause burning or gnawing upper-abdominal pain, nausea, bloating or discomfort between meals, although some ulcers cause no early symptoms. Pain alone cannot identify the cause. See [Helicobacter Pylori Infection](/conditions/helicobacter-pylori-infection/) and [Peptic Ulcer](/conditions/peptic-ulcer/).

A clinician may test for Helicobacter pylori and review medicines such as anti-inflammatory painkillers, which can also injure the digestive lining. Confirmed infection is usually treated with a prescribed combination of antibiotics and acid-suppressing medicine. Take treatment as instructed and complete the course. Avoid self-treating persistent pain with anti-inflammatory medicines without medical advice, and attend any recommended follow-up.

Get emergency help for vomiting blood, black stools, fainting, sudden severe abdominal pain, a rigid abdomen or marked weakness. These may indicate bleeding or a hole in the digestive tract. Arrange medical review for recurring pain, persistent vomiting, difficulty swallowing or symptoms that interfere with eating.

Ask whether you need Helicobacter pylori testing, which pain medicines are safer for you, how treatment will protect the lining, and whether a repeat test is needed after therapy. Mention previous ulcers, bleeding, allergies and every medicine or supplement you take.