What are the first signs of peptic ulcer?

A peptic ulcer is a break in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. Pain may be felt high in the abdomen and can come and go, sometimes around meals or at night. Some ulcers cause few symptoms until they bleed. Symptoms overlap with reflux, indigestion and other abdominal conditions, so the pattern alone cannot confirm an ulcer.

Arrange a medical assessment for recurring upper-abdominal discomfort, indigestion, nausea or appetite change. Tell the clinician about pain-relieving medicines, previous ulcers, vomiting and any change in stools. They may review medicines and consider testing for an infection or other causes. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice, and avoid taking extra anti-inflammatory painkillers unless a clinician recommends them.

Get urgent help if you vomit blood, pass black or tar-like stools, develop sudden severe abdominal pain, feel faint or become unusually weak. Chest pain or breathlessness also needs urgent assessment because it may not be coming from the stomach. Repeated symptoms with tiredness or pallor should be reviewed because bleeding can contribute to anaemia.

Ask whether your symptoms need ulcer testing, which painkillers are safer for you, and how to take any prescribed treatment. Ask which changes in pain, vomiting or stools should prompt immediate help.