“Ulcer Na Naman Daw”: What Filipinos Often Get Wrong About Ulcers

“Sumasakit na naman tiyan ko… ulcer na ’to.”

Many Filipinos say this whenever they experience stomach pain after skipping breakfast, feeling stressed, drinking too much coffee, or eating spicy food.

But wait.

Not every stomach pain is an ulcer. Automatically labeling every episode of stomach discomfort as “ulcer” can lead to misunderstanding and, sometimes, delayed treatment of a more serious condition.

What Is an Ulcer Really?

A peptic ulcer is not simply “acid” or “maasim ang tiyan.” It is an actual open sore that develops in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine called the duodenum.

Imagine having a wound inside your digestive system that is constantly exposed to stomach acid. That is why ulcers can cause persistent and painful symptoms.

So if your stomach hurts because you skipped a meal, it does not automatically mean you have an ulcer. It may be gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), acid reflux, or indigestion.

These conditions may feel similar, but they are not the same.

What Really Causes Ulcers?

Many people believe that ulcers are caused by coffee, stress, or spicy foods. However, the two major causes of peptic ulcers are:

1. H. pylori Infection

Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria that can live in the stomach lining and gradually damage its protective layer.

When the stomach lining becomes weakened, stomach acid can create an open sore, leading to ulcer formation.

The surprising part? Many people carry H. pylori without knowing they have it.

2. Excessive Use of NSAIDs

Frequent or long-term use of pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and mefenamic acid can damage the stomach’s protective lining and increase the risk of developing ulcers.

So kapag lagi kang umiinom ng pain reliever for headaches, body pain, or menstrual cramps, it is important to be cautious and consult a healthcare professional if it becomes frequent.

Meanwhile, these factors do not directly cause ulcers:

• Stress
• Spicy food
• Coffee
• Skipping meals

These may worsen symptoms or trigger discomfort, but they are not the main causes of ulcer formation.

Why Should You Take Ulcers Seriously?

Many people dismiss ulcers as “simpleng sakit ng tiyan,” but untreated ulcers can lead to serious complications.

Possible complications include:

• Internal bleeding - which may appear as black, tar-like stools or vomiting blood
• Perforation - when the ulcer creates a hole in the stomach wall, which is a medical emergency
• Obstruction - when swelling or scarring blocks the normal movement of food through the digestive tract
• Increased risk of stomach cancer, especially with untreated H. pylori infection

Kaya hindi dapat basta sinasabi na “ulcer lang naman.”

Common Symptoms of an Ulcer

Possible ulcer symptoms include:

• Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen
• Pain that becomes worse when the stomach is empty or during late nights
• Feeling full quickly after eating
• Bloating, frequent burping, or nausea
• Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss

However, seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• Vomiting blood
• Black or very dark stools
• Sudden severe abdominal pain
• Extreme weakness, dizziness, or pale skin along with stomach pain

Kapag may ganitong warning signs, hindi na sapat ang pag-inom lang ng antacid.

What Should You Do If You Suspect an Ulcer?

First, avoid self-diagnosis.

Not every stomach pain is an ulcer, but repeated or worsening symptoms should be checked properly.

A healthcare provider may recommend tests such as an H. pylori test or an endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis.

If H. pylori is present, it requires proper antibiotic treatment. Antacids alone cannot remove the infection.

It is also important to be careful with frequent use of pain relievers and ask a doctor about safer options if needed.

Healthy habits can also support stomach health:

• Eat regular meals
• Limit alcohol and smoking
• Manage stress levels
• Avoid habits that repeatedly trigger stomach discomfort

These habits may not cure ulcers, but they can help reduce symptoms and prevent worsening.

The Bottom Line

Hindi lahat ng sakit ng tiyan ay ulcer.

But when it is a true ulcer, it is not just a simple stomach ache. It is a real wound inside the body that can lead to serious complications if ignored.

The next time you feel stomach pain and immediately think, “ulcer na naman,” pause and ask:

Is this happening repeatedly? Is the pain burning? Does it happen when my stomach is empty? Are there changes in my stool or vomiting?

If the answer is yes, it is better to seek proper medical advice rather than rely only on antacids.

Early diagnosis means earlier treatment and a healthier stomach in the long run.

_______________
Stay connected with the 800ZED Blog! Get the latest health tips, wellness insights, and simple daily habits that can boost your well-being — from your sleep routine to your screen time. Subscribe now and take small steps toward a healthier, happier you.