Contrary to popular belief, ulcers are not caused by stress or spicy foods. Instead, most ulcers are caused by a bacterium, Helicobacter pylori. H. pylori infection is common, and half of all Americans aged 60 and over are thought to be infected. The bacteria live in the protective mucous layers of the stomach and duodenum and are usually harmless. Sometimes, however, the bacteria disrupt the mucous layer, and digestive juices are able to erode the cell layers beneath it, forming an ulcer.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also irritate the lining of the stomach and small intestine. These include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), ketoprofen (Orudis), flurbiprofen (Ansaid), naproxen (Naprosyn, Anaprox, Aleve), and ketorolac (Toradol). Alka-Seltzer and Pepto-Bismol also contain NSAIDs, and although they are often taken for ulcer symptoms, they can make the condition worse.

Nicotine and alcohol can increase the amount and/or concentration of stomach acid, although it's uncertain whether they can cause ulcers on their own or merely aggravate a pre-existing condition. Rarely, ulcers can be caused by genetic disorders, cancer, cirrhosis, or other diseases. Finally, although stress does not cause ulcers, it can aggravate ulcer symptoms and delay healing.

There is no guaranteed way to prevent ulcers. Tobacco can be avoided, and alcohol and NSAIDs can be avoided or used in moderation. H. pylori infection is endemic, although the infection rates suggest that it is only moderately transmissible, and the rate of infection in the US is declining. Fortunately, the treatment for most ulcers is simple: antibiotics to kill the H. pylori (if needed) along with acid blockers and/or proton pump inhibitors to reduce the production of stomach acid, antacids to neutralize existing stomach acid, and/or coating agents to protect the lining of the stomach and intestine.

An ulcer is a sore that develops in the lining of your stomach or digestive tract. It can be caused by a bacteria known as heliobacter pylori, or by the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Other factors such as diet, stress and excessive alcohol consumption may play contributing roles in the development of an ulcer. An ulcer may result in gastrointestinal bleeding. Prevention is always the best course of action if possible. Following are a few ways to prevent the development of a bleeding ulcer.

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Step 1

Avoid drinking alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the stomach lining and interfere with the production of natural stomach secretions that coat the lining of the stomach. It is best to avoid alcohol completely, especially if you have other risk factors such as heredity that indicate you may be prime candidate for the development of an ulcer. If you must consume alcohol, do so in moderation.
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Step 2

Watch your diet. Avoid eating spicy and greasy foods that can irritate your stomach lining and cause stomach upset. Avoid eating a lot of processed foods and snacks that are loaded with salt. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
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Step 3

Limit caffeine intake. Avoid drinking excessive amounts of beverages such as coffee, tea and soda pop that contain large amounts of caffeine. Soda also contains acid that can irritate and even weaken the stomach lining, causing gastrointestinal upset that may set the stage for ulcer development if you don't already have one. If you do have a bleeding ulcer, excessive amounts of caffeine can wear away more of the stomach lining where the ulcer is present, causing increased bleeding.
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Step 4

Avoid smoking. Smoking delays the body's natural healing processes. If you already have a bleeding ulcer, smoking can aggravate the condition. Smoking delays the clotting of blood, thereby slowing down the process that stops the bleeding.
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Step 5

Avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin. These medications are believed to play a large role in the development of ulcers. Aspirin thins the blood, which increases the possibility of bleeding. If you have a bleeding ulcer, consult your physician before taking any medications.
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Step 6

Take steps to lower your stress levels. Although there has been a great deal of debate over the actual role of stress in the development of ulcers, some physicians do believe stress plays a pertinent role. Reducing the amount of stress in your life can help prevent the development of an ulcer or reduce the aggravation of an existing ulcer.