The Difference Between Stomach Ulcer and Duodenal Ulcer Pain

Stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers are both types of peptic ulcers, but they differ significantly in terms of pain patterns. One of the key distinctions is the timing of the discomfort. Duodenal ulcers often cause pain when the stomach is empty, especially before meals, while stomach ulcers typically trigger pain after eating. Both conditions can cause upper abdominal pain that tends to come and go in a rhythmic, cyclical manner.

The pain associated with both ulcers can also be influenced by seasonal changes. It's common for symptoms to worsen during transitions between seasons, particularly from fall to winter. Below is a more detailed look at how each type of ulcer presents:

Pain Patterns in Stomach Ulcers

Stomach ulcer pain usually appears shortly after eating. Patients may feel discomfort or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen as digestion begins. As food moves through the digestive tract and the stomach empties, the pain often subsides or even disappears completely.

Characteristics of Duodenal Ulcer Pain

Unlike stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers tend to cause what is known as "hunger pain." This means the discomfort often arises when the stomach is empty, such as between meals or in the early morning hours. Eating generally relieves the pain, which is why many patients find themselves waking up at night with discomfort only to feel better after having something to eat.