Gastric Ulcers and Diarrhea: What You Need to Know

Many people wonder whether gastric ulcers can cause diarrhea. The truth is, gastric ulcers themselves do not typically lead to loose or watery stools. However, they can cause a variety of other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Gastric Ulcers

1. Abdominal Pain: One of the most typical signs of a gastric ulcer is upper abdominal pain. This discomfort is often described as a burning, aching, or gnawing sensation. It tends to occur in a cyclical pattern, often worsening during the colder months of winter and spring. The pain usually intensifies after eating and may subside when the stomach is empty. In severe cases, such as a perforated ulcer, patients may experience sharp, sudden abdominal pain, tenderness across the entire abdomen, rigid abdominal muscles, and rebound tenderness.

2. Nausea and Vomiting: Patients with ulcers located near the pylorus (the opening between the stomach and small intestine) may develop partial blockage due to swelling and inflammation. This can result in nausea and vomiting, which are important warning signs that should not be ignored.

3. Changes in Bowel Movements: While diarrhea is not a direct symptom of a gastric ulcer, changes in stool appearance may occur if the ulcer begins to bleed. Bleeding ulcers can cause black, tarry stools (known as melena), which indicate the presence of digested blood. In some cases, patients may also vomit material that looks like coffee grounds, another sign of internal bleeding. Significant blood loss can stimulate the intestines, increasing bowel movements and producing dark, sticky stools. However, this does not involve loose, mucousy diarrhea.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you are diagnosed with a gastric ulcer, it's important to follow a proper treatment plan. Most ulcers respond well to medication over a period of 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, acid-reducing drugs and antibiotics (if the ulcer is caused by H. pylori infection) are commonly prescribed.

In addition, larger ulcers may require biopsy to rule out malignancy. After two months of treatment, your doctor will likely recommend a follow-up endoscopy to ensure the ulcer has healed properly.

In conclusion, while gastric ulcers do not directly cause diarrhea, they can lead to serious complications that alter bowel habits. If you experience any unusual digestive symptoms, especially black stools or persistent abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly.