Adults only (18+)

How to Relieve Stomach Pain from Ulcers

Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are open sores that form on the lining of the stomach. They can cause a dull or burning pain in the abdomen, and in some cases, that pain can become severe or long-lasting. If you have a confirmed diagnosis of a stomach ulcer or suspect you may have one, managing the discomfort properly is an important part of healing and protecting your digestive health.

Understanding what causes ulcer pain and how to relieve it with safe, evidence-based strategies can make day-to-day life more comfortable while supporting your recovery.

What Is a Stomach Ulcer

A stomach ulcer is a break or sore in the protective lining of the stomach. It usually develops when the balance between stomach acid and the mucus that protects the stomach lining is disrupted. This can allow acid to damage the tissue, causing inflammation, irritation and pain.

The most common cause is a bacterial infection called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which weakens the stomach’s natural defences. Another major cause is long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Smoking, high alcohol intake, stress and certain medical conditions may also increase the risk of developing an ulcer.

What the Pain Feels Like

Stomach ulcer pain is often described as a burning or gnawing sensation in the upper abdomen, just below the breastbone. It may come and go throughout the day or worsen on an empty stomach. Some people find that eating relieves the pain temporarily, while others feel worse after meals.

The pain may also wake you during the night, and you might experience bloating, burping, nausea or a feeling of fullness even after eating small amounts. In more severe cases, ulcers can cause vomiting or black, tarry stools, which are signs of bleeding and need urgent medical attention.

How to Relieve the Pain Safely

If you have been diagnosed with a stomach ulcer, your GP may prescribe a combination of treatments to ease symptoms and promote healing. This usually includes a course of acid-suppressing medication such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2-receptor antagonists. These medicines reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces, helping the ulcer heal and relieving pain in the process.

If your ulcer is caused by H. pylori infection, a short course of antibiotics will also be prescribed to clear the bacteria. Taking all medications exactly as directed is essential for effective healing and long-term relief.

At home, you can help relieve the pain by avoiding anything that triggers acid production or irritates the stomach lining. Eat smaller meals more often instead of large portions, and choose gentle foods that are not too spicy, greasy or acidic. Soft, low-fat foods such as porridge, bananas, boiled potatoes and plain chicken may feel more comfortable while your stomach heals.

Drinking plenty of water can also help by diluting stomach acid and aiding digestion. Avoid alcohol, smoking and fizzy drinks, as these can aggravate symptoms or slow healing.

If your pain is severe or persistent despite treatment, speak to your GP, who may adjust your medication or refer you for further testing to check the severity of the ulcer.

Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Further Pain

Managing your lifestyle can make a big difference in preventing ulcer flare-ups. Try to manage stress through gentle movement, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques or talking therapies. Stress itself does not cause ulcers but can make symptoms worse.

Do not skip meals or leave long gaps between eating, as an empty stomach may increase acid irritation. Avoid lying down straight after eating, and raise your head slightly while sleeping to reduce reflux, which can sometimes accompany ulcer discomfort.

If you regularly use NSAIDs for joint pain or headaches, ask your GP whether an alternative medication is safer for your stomach. If you need to take these medicines, they may be prescribed alongside protective medication to reduce the risk of damage.

When to Seek Medical Help

You should always speak to a GP if you suspect you have a stomach ulcer or if your abdominal pain is ongoing and unexplained. Symptoms such as sudden sharp pain, vomiting blood, or black stools may indicate a bleeding ulcer and require immediate medical care.

Even if your symptoms are mild, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and speed up healing. A GP may arrange a breath test, blood test or endoscopy to confirm the presence of H. pylori or to assess the ulcer directly.

Common Misunderstandings About Ulcers

It was once believed that ulcers were caused entirely by stress or spicy food. While these factors can worsen symptoms, they are not the root cause. Most stomach ulcers are the result of bacterial infection or long-term medication use. Another misconception is that milk soothes ulcers. While it may provide temporary relief, milk can also stimulate acid production later and may not be helpful in the long term.

You do not need to give up all your favourite foods forever. Once your ulcer has healed and your symptoms improve, your GP or dietitian can guide you on gradually reintroducing different foods while keeping your stomach comfortable.

Emotional Impact and Coping

Living with ongoing stomach pain or digestive discomfort can take a toll on your mood and quality of life. You might feel anxious about eating out, uncertain about what to eat or worried that the pain might return. These are normal feelings, especially during flare-ups. With proper treatment and a supportive care plan, most people find that their symptoms become manageable over time.

If your digestive issues are affecting your mental wellbeing, speak to your GP or a support service. Gut health and emotional health are closely linked, and feeling heard and supported can make a big difference in recovery.

Final Thought

Stomach ulcers can be painful and disruptive, but with the right treatment, they are usually very treatable. Whether the pain is mild or severe, relief is possible with proper medical care, lifestyle changes and gentle dietary support. If you are living with discomfort or think you may have an ulcer, do not wait to speak to your GP. Acting early and taking care of your stomach can bring lasting relief and help restore your sense of wellbeing.