Symptoms and Complications
The most common symptom of peptic ulcers (both duodenal and gastric) is a gnawing or burning pain in the abdomen between the breastbone and the navel, sometimes passed off as "heartburn." An ulcer can also feel like a dull ache or strong hunger pangs. Yet some people, especially the elderly, may not feel any pain at all from an ulcer.
Ulcers can also cause belching and bloating, while more serious peptic ulcer disease can lead to nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, and weight loss. Sometimes, stomach and duodenal ulcers can bleed. Although the blood loss is usually too slow to be noticed, it might be enough to make you tired, pale, and weak.
If bleeding from the peptic ulcer is heavier, blood will show up in the stool or vomit. Stools that have blood in them may look tarry, black, or obviously red. If you notice any of these signs, see a doctor right away. Keep in mind also that, since NSAIDs are such strong painkillers, they can mask the pain of bleeding ulcers.
About 7,600 people die each year in the United States from gastrointestinal (stomach and intestines) bleeding caused by NSAIDs.