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An ulcer is a sore on the protective lining of the stomach or the duodenum. An ulcer on the stomach is called a stomach (or gastric) ulcer. An ulcer on the duodenum is called a duodenal ulcer.

The most common cause in the development of an ulcer is the bacterium, Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori), which in itself does not usually cause any ulcer symptoms but does act as an irritant to the lining of the stomach. This can lead to the development of an ulcer.

H. Pylori may also be involved in the development of stomach cancer. If you have had a stomach ulcer in the past, the risk of stomach cancer may be increased by 4 to 5 times.

If you have had a duodenal ulcer, the risk of stomach cancer is likely to be less than average because such ulcers are caused by too much stomach acid, which can protect the stomach against cancer.

If H. Pylori is identified, it can be treated and in most cases cleared with a course of antibiotics.

SelfDiagnosis supplies a blood test to detect the presence of H. Pylori. If the test is found to be positive, it is important that it is followed up by a visit to your doctor.