One out of eight persons in the United States is affected by peptic ulcer disease. An ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach or intestine. Most peptic ulcers are caused from a stomach infection caused by the bacteria H. Pylori. Certain aspirin and arthritis medications can also damage the mucous layer of the stomach, which is then further injured by stomach acid.

Acid-suppressing drugs are effective in relieving symptoms and allowing ulcers to heal. If an ulcer has been caused by aspirin or an arthritis drug, then avoiding these drugs is usually the only treatment necessary. When the presence of H. pylori is detected, a number of antibiotic programs are available to treat the infection.

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