More than 10% of Americans have suffered from stomach ulcers in their lives. People who smoke, abuse alcohol, take asprin or some anti-inflammatory drugs are in a high risk category.

Ulcers can be acute or chronic. Acute ulcers tend to be small and more numerous and heal rather rapidly. They are often asymptomatic. A chronic ulcer, in contrast, is almost always a single, deep lesion. Most are round with raised, curved edges. The classic complaint is of a cyclic burning or gnawing pain that is relieved by eating, only to recur when the stomach empties. Research indicates that the helicobacter bacteria may be involved in producing ulcers. This bacterium normally lives in the lining of the stomach. Some individuals may have their stomach lining weakened by these bacteria. This compromises the mucosa and helps contribute to the formation of an ulcer. Promising therapies which mix acid blocking medication such as Prylosec with antibodies to destroy the helicobacter bacteria have made a major impact in ulcer treatment. More than 10% of Americans have suffered from stomach ulcers in their lives. People who smoke, abuse alcohol, take aspirin and some anti-inflammatory drugs are in a high risk category.

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