A stomach ulcer, also known as a gastric ulcer, is an open sore that forms on the protective lining of the stomach. These sores can also develop in the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum, and are collectively referred to as peptic ulcers. While often associated with burning or gnawing pain, not all ulcers cause noticeable symptoms. The duration a stomach ulcer lasts can vary considerably, depending on several factors including its underlying cause and the effectiveness of treatment.
Typical Healing Duration
Most stomach ulcers, when properly diagnosed and treated, typically heal within a few weeks. Common timelines suggest that many ulcers resolve within four to eight weeks. However, larger ulcers, generally defined as those exceeding five millimeters in size, may require a longer healing period, potentially extending up to 12 weeks.
For ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medications. Healing often begins once the infection is eradicated with this regimen. Similarly, ulcers induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) heal once the medication is discontinued, though additional acid-reducing treatment can accelerate recovery.
Influences on Healing Time
Several factors influence how quickly a stomach ulcer heals. The primary cause plays a major role; H. pylori infection and prolonged NSAID use are the most common culprits. Conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, causing excessive stomach acid production, can also lead to chronic ulcers that require ongoing management.
Adherence to prescribed medication regimens is also important. Failing to take antibiotics and acid-suppressing drugs as directed can substantially delay the healing process. For instance, a typical H. pylori treatment might involve a one-week course of antibiotics followed by several weeks of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid.
Lifestyle choices also impact healing. Smoking is known to slow ulcer healing and can increase stomach acid levels, while excessive alcohol consumption irritates the stomach lining. Although stress and diet do not cause ulcers, managing stress and avoiding foods that irritate the stomach can help reduce symptoms during the healing period. The size and specific location of the ulcer within the stomach can also influence its healing rate.
When Ulcers Don’t Heal
Some stomach ulcers may persist beyond the typical healing timeframe or recur, often termed refractory ulcers. This can occur if medication is not taken consistently, if the H. pylori strain is resistant to antibiotics, or if NSAID use continues. Underlying medical conditions, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, or, less commonly, other infections or stomach cancer, can also contribute to non-healing ulcers.
Unhealed ulcers carry risks of serious complications. These can include bleeding, which may manifest as slow blood loss leading to anemia, or rapid, severe bleeding causing bloody vomit or dark, tarry stools. A non-healing ulcer can also erode completely through the stomach wall, a dangerous condition called perforation that can lead to infection of the abdominal cavity. In some cases, chronic inflammation and scarring from an ulcer can block the passage of food through the digestive system. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if signs of complications like severe pain, bloody vomit, or dark stools appear, prompt medical evaluation is necessary.