Duodenal Ulcer vs Gastric Ulcer: Understanding the Differences

The differences between duodenal ulcers and gastric ulcers can be categorized into three main areas.

Gastric ulcers occur in the stomach, while duodenal ulcers develop in the duodenum. Specifically, gastric ulcers commonly appear in the antrum, gastric angle, and the lesser curvature of the stomach body. In contrast, duodenal ulcers are most frequently found in the duodenal bulb, particularly on the anterior or posterior wall.

Both types cause upper abdominal pain, but the timing differs. Both conditions lead to chronic, recurring, and rhythmic upper abdominal pain, often lasting for months or even years. They also tend to flare up during seasonal transitions, such as from autumn to winter or winter to spring. However, the relationship with meals is distinct—patients with gastric ulcers typically experience pain after eating, whereas those with duodenal ulcers feel discomfort when the stomach is empty. Eating food or taking acid-reducing medications can quickly relieve duodenal ulcer symptoms.

Duodenal ulcers are mainly caused by H. pylori infection, while gastric ulcers may also be linked to medication use. While Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection plays a key role in both types, it is especially significant in duodenal ulcers. On the other hand, gastric ulcers can also result from long-term use of certain medications, such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This distinction is important for determining treatment approaches and prevention strategies.