Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Ulcers?
A gastroenterologist specializes in the digestive system and treats severe or non-healing ulcers. Most people start with a primary care doctor, who can order tests and begin treatment, then refer when needed. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
An ulcer is an open sore on the lining of an organ. The most common type is a peptic ulcer, a sore in the stomach or duodenum. These sores form when the protective mucus layer in the digestive tract is damaged, so stomach acid irritates the tissue underneath.
Symptoms
The most common sign is a burning pain in the middle of the belly, often between meals or at night. Other symptoms include feeling full too soon, burping, nausea, or weight loss. Dark stools, vomiting blood, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds are warning signs of bleeding and need medical care right away.
Causes and who gets it
The most common cause is infection with a germ called H. pylori. Another is frequent use of NSAID pain medicines like ibuprofen or aspirin. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and family history also raise risk.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors ask about symptoms and medicines, then order tests. A stool sample or breath test can check for H. pylori. Some patients need an endoscopy, which uses a thin tube with a camera to view the stomach lining.
Treatment
Most ulcers are treated with medicines that lower stomach acid so the sore can heal. If H. pylori is the cause, doctors also prescribe antibiotics. Patients should avoid NSAIDs, smoking, and alcohol while healing.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for belly pain that lasts more than a few days. Get care right away for black stools, vomiting blood, severe pain, or feeling faint.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance; a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can often handle ulcer care from start to finish, with longer visits that help when discussing symptoms and treatment. They can order H. pylori tests, prescribe medicine, and follow healing over time, referring to a gastroenterologist if an ulcer is bleeding or not responding to treatment.
Common questions
Can stress cause an ulcer?
Stress alone rarely causes an ulcer. The main causes are H. pylori infection and frequent NSAID use. Severe stress from major illness can contribute, but everyday stress is not usually the main cause.
Are ulcers contagious?
The ulcer itself is not contagious, but H. pylori can spread between people through food, water, or close contact. Not everyone who carries the germ develops an ulcer.
Will an ulcer heal on its own?
Some mild sores may improve if the cause stops, such as quitting NSAIDs. Most ulcers need medicine to heal well. A doctor should check any belly pain that lasts more than a few days.
Can I take antacids instead of seeing a doctor?
Antacids can ease burning pain for a short time but do not treat the cause. If pain keeps coming back, see a doctor.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
