Ulcers are painful sore(s) present in the protective lining of the digestive tract in humans. It is mostly attributed to a bacterium called Helicobacter Pylori (H.pylori).

H. Pylori has attached itself to humanity for thousands of years, and is now believed to be in up to 50% of the total human population.

Medical experts previously thought that the stomach was sterile on account of it being such an acidic, hostile environment. Yet, H. Pylori survives the most acidic turmoil of the stomach with a variety of features that disrupt the stomach’s defense system in its favor.

For example, it produces an enzyme called urease, that helps protect it from the surrounding gastric acid. H. Pylori can make over 1,500 proteins, many of which are dedicated to maximizing its virulence.

While there is still no specific answer to why specific people develop ulcers at particular times, however, we do know that individual genetics, other medical problems, use of certain medications, smoking, and the genetic diversity of H. Pylori strains all play a role.

Certain pain medications like NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen), often used to reduce inflammation in joints have been discovered to work with H. Pylori to create more severe stomach ulcers.

Some actions you can take to speed up your recovery from ulcer include:
Quit smoking
Avoid NSAIDs (if possible)
Don’t drink too much alcohol