Peptic Ulcer: H. pylori and NSAIDs
Most peptic ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or chronic NSAID use.
Healthlife Editorial Team
Medical writers
In simple terms
Most peptic ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or chronic NSAID use.
What you need to remember
- Testing — H. pylori breath or stool antigen test; endoscopy for alarm symptoms.
- Treatment — Proton-pump inhibitor plus triple/quadruple antibiotic therapy for H.
Epigastric pain, often relieved by food (duodenal) or worsened by food (gastric), points to peptic ulcer.
Testing
H. pylori breath or stool antigen test; endoscopy for alarm symptoms.
Treatment
Proton-pump inhibitor plus triple/quadruple antibiotic therapy for H. pylori. Stop NSAIDs when possible.
Any ulcer bleeding (black stools, vomiting blood) is an emergency.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
- Antibiotic
- A medicine that kills bacteria. It does not work against viruses like colds or flu.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Peptic Ulcer: H. pylori and NSAIDs?
- Most peptic ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or chronic NSAID use.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Peptic Ulcer: H. pylori and NSAIDs?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Peptic Ulcer: H. pylori and NSAIDs?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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