When to consult your physician
Although most stomach ulcers can heal on their own, you should know when you should seek medical advice regarding your condition. Here are some cases when you should consider paying your doctor a visit:
- If you have had persistent stomach pain for a long time. It might mean that your condition is chronic and medical treatment is a must in such cases.
- If you vomit blood or have black tarry stools. In both cases, a bleeding stomach ulcer is a cause, and bleeding stomach ulcers need hospital admission.
- If you have a noticeable weight loss. Weight loss is a side effect of stomach ulcers because patients tend to eat less to avoid pain, but a noticeable weight loss can also be because of underlying cancer. Visiting your doctor is justified in such cases.
- If you feel any difficulty or pain in swallowing. Stomach ulcers shouldn’t cause any problem with swallowing, and if they are present, then you are likely having an esophageal problem which should be investigated.
- If you have severe abdominal pain. Stomach ulcers don’t cause severe pain unless a complication has occurred.