Peptic Ulcer Disease: What You Need to Know

• Peptic ulcer disease predominately affects the older population, especially those between 55 and 65 years of age.
• If you contracted the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), you may develop peptic ulcers.
• Your doctor will use a number of diagnostic procedures to test for peptic ulcer disease, including X-rays and endoscopies. Other specialized procedures may be used if necessary.
• Treatments for peptic ulcer disease include medication and surgery.

Duodenal ulcers are more common in men, while gastric ulcers are more common in women. Stomach acids contribute to the formation of ulcers. However, many ulcers develop because of a H. pylori infection or as a result of medications.

Patient Resources

Learn more about peptic ulcer disease in our Health Library

Read a more in-depth article about peptic ulcer disease, written by Johns Hopkins gastroenterologists, which details the anatomical description of the causes of peptic ulcer disease.

Read our FAQs about peptic ulcer disease.