Peptic ulcer disease
An ulcer is a sore in the stomach or duodenum. Treatment addresses the cause and supports healing.
Two common causes of ulcers
H. pylori and certain painkillers are the main causes. An ulcer affects the digestive lining.
Two common causes
Spicy food is not the usual cause. Do not stop prescribed aspirin without advice.
Symptoms may include upper abdominal pain, nausea or early fullness, but some ulcers are silent. Tests identify the cause. Food-related pain alone cannot confirm an ulcer.
Where would you like to start?
Understanding peptic ulcers
H. pylori and certain painkillers are the main causes. An ulcer affects the digestive lining.
Supporting ulcer healing
Treat the cause, complete the plan and review painkillers safely.
Recovery and urgent warning signs
Bleeding, severe pain or fainting can indicate an ulcer complication.
Does avoiding spicy food alone treat an ulcer?
Choose an answer to see the explanation.
Let's make it clearer.
Are ulcers caused by spicy food?
Spicy food may worsen discomfort in some people, but H. pylori and NSAID medicines are the main causes. Diet changes alone do not treat them.
Can I stop treatment when the pain settles?
Follow the prescribed duration and review plan. Symptom improvement does not always confirm healing or successful clearance of H. pylori.
Sources & content information
Source check: 6 September 2026. General patient education for clinician review. Illustrations are conceptual and are not diagnostic images.