Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach.

You can also get ulcers in part of the intestine just beyond the stomach, which are called duodenal ulcers. Stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers (sometimes called peptic ulcers) cause the same symptoms and treatment for both is the same.

The most common symptom of a stomach ulcer is a burning or gnawing pain in the centre of the tummy (abdomen). Stomach ulcers aren't always painful, and some people may experience other symptoms, such as indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux and feeling sick.

Stomach ulcers happen when there’s damage to the layer that protects the stomach lining from the acids in your stomach.

This is usually a result of:

• an infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria

• taking anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin – particularly if they're taken for a long time or at high doses

It used to be thought that stress or certain foods might cause stomach ulcers, but there's little evidence to suggest this is the case.

Stomach ulcers can affect anyone but are more common in people aged 60 or over. Men are more affected than women.

1. Wash your hands with soap and rinse with clear water.

2. To collect faecal specimens:

The stool specimen should be collected in the stool collection paper. Ensure the specimen does not come into contact with any contaminants, such as toilet cleaner.

3. To process faecal specimens:

Unscrew the cap of the specimen collection tube, then randomly stab the specimen collection applicator into the faecal specimen in at least 3 different sites. Do not scoop the faecal specimen.
Screw the cap back and on tightly, then shake the specimen collection tube vigorously to mix the specimen and the extraction buffer.

4. Bring the pouch to room temperature before opening it. Remove the test cassette from the foil pouch and use it as soon as possible. Best results will be obtained if the test is performed immediately after opening the foil pouch.

5. Open the cap of the specimen collection tube and break the tip. Tip the specimen collection tube upside down and transfer 2 full drops of the extracted specimen to the specimen well (S) of the test cassette, then start the timer. Avoid trapping air bubbles in the specimen well (S).

6. Read results at 10 minutes. Do not read results after 20 minutes.

Read results at 10 minutes. Do not read results after 20 minutes.

POSITIVE:* Two lines appear. Both T (Test) line and C (Control) line appear.

This result means that there is the presence of the H.pylori antigen in faeces and that you should consult a physician.

*NOTE: The intensity of the colour in the test line region (T) will vary depending on the concentration of H.pylori antigen present in the specimen. Therefore, any shade of colour in the test line region (T) should be considered positive.

NEGATIVE: One coloured line appears in the control line region (C). No line appears in the test line region (T). This result means that the presence of the H.pylori antigen in faeces was not detectable.

INVALID: Control line fails to appear. Insufficient specimen volume or incorrect procedural techniques are the most likely reasons for control line failure. Review the procedure and repeat the test with a new test. If the problem persists, discontinue using the test kit immediately and contact your local distributor.

You should seek medical treatment if you receive a positive result.

Treatment will depend on what caused the ulcer. Most people will be prescribed a medication called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to reduce the amount of acid in their stomach.

You’ll also need antibiotics if your ulcers were caused by a H. pylori infection.

Stomach ulcers can come back after treatment, although this is less likely to happen if the underlying cause is addressed.