A stomach ulcer, or peptic ulcer, is an open sore that develops on the inner lining of the stomach or small intestine. This occurs when the protective mucus layer breaks down, allowing digestive acids to damage the tissue. The primary causes are infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) or the prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). For individuals with a managed ulcer, physical activity is generally permitted and can be beneficial, but it requires careful adjustments to avoid irritation. Medical clearance from a healthcare provider is recommended before starting any exercise program.
When Exercise Should Be Avoided
Exercise must be avoided if a person is experiencing severe, acute symptoms suggesting a complication or an unmanaged ulcer. This includes sharp, sudden abdominal pain that is much worse than usual, which could signal a serious event like a perforation. Any sign of gastrointestinal bleeding is a medical emergency requiring immediate cessation of activity.
Signs of bleeding include vomiting blood (which may look bright red or like dark coffee grounds) or passing black, tarry stools (melena). Other symptoms like light-headedness, fainting, or shock suggest significant blood loss and require urgent medical intervention. Until the ulcer is properly treated and symptoms are controlled, physical exertion must be postponed.
How Exercise Affects the Stomach and Ulcer
Certain types of movement can physically stress the ulcerated area, necessitating modified routines. Vigorous exercise, particularly anything involving significant bracing or strain, increases intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). This mechanical pressure compresses the stomach and can force gastric contents, including acid, against the sensitive ulcer site.
High-intensity or prolonged endurance exercise may also negatively affect the body’s defense mechanisms. These activities can temporarily reduce blood flow to the stomach lining (mucosal blood flow) and suppress immune function. This reduction in local circulation can impede the healing process of the ulcerated tissue. Jarring, high-impact activities like running or jumping can physically jostle the stomach, aggravating the fragile lining.
Choosing Safe Activities and Modifications
The focus for safe exercise should be on low-impact activities that do not significantly elevate IAP or cause physical jarring. Brisk walking is an excellent starting point, providing cardiovascular benefits without excessive strain. Swimming and stationary cycling are also well-tolerated options because they allow for a steady, rhythmic pace with minimal impact.
When strength training, choose exercises that work the limbs while minimizing core compression and bracing. Safe choices include light resistance work such as bicep curls, triceps extensions, leg presses, and shoulder presses, performed with low to moderate weights.
Avoid exercises that directly engage or compress the abdominal muscles, like traditional crunches, sit-ups, or heavy overhead lifting. Replace these movements with gentle stretching and mobility work, such as modified yoga or Pilates poses.
Modifications should include careful attention to posture and intensity. Avoid lying flat on the stomach, as this applies direct external pressure to the ulcer area. Intensity should remain low to moderate, allowing you to hold a conversation comfortably during the activity. Maintaining hydration is important, as dehydration can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues.
Recognizing Warning Signs During Activity
It is important to remain vigilant and listen to the body’s signals while exercising, as symptoms can worsen in real-time. A sudden or noticeable increase in abdominal pain or cramping is a definitive sign to stop immediately. This pain may manifest as a burning or gnawing sensation that intensifies with exertion.
Other symptoms that warrant immediate cessation of activity include nausea, persistent heartburn, or excessive burping and gas. Feeling faint, dizzy, or unusually weak during a workout should prompt an immediate stop and rest. If these symptoms do not subside quickly after resting, seek medical advice rather than attempting to continue the exercise.