What are the symptoms of a stomach ulcer and how can it be treated at home?

(CNN) -- An ulcer affects the stomach lining; it is an open or eroded area in the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. Most stomach ulcers heal within 4 to 6 weeks of starting treatment, although symptoms often disappear quickly.

Researchers estimate that between 1% and 6% of people in the United States suffer from peptic ulcers, according to the National Institutes of Health website.

The likelihood of developing an ulcer increases in people with Helicobacter pylori infection and those who regularly take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.

What are the symptoms of a stomach ulcer?

Peptic ulcers can cause symptoms similar to indigestion, including:

Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, anywhere between the navel and breastbone

Feeling full quickly while eating

Uncomfortable feeling of fullness after a meal

Nausea and vomiting

Bloating

Frequent burping

Abdominal pain is the most common symptom of peptic ulcers. The pain may be dull or burning, and it may come and go over time.

Many people with peptic ulcers often have no symptoms until the ulcer leads to health complications, such as:

Black or dark stool, or red blood mixed in stool

Red blood in vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds

Sudden, sharp, or severe abdominal pain

Dizziness or fainting

Rapid pulse or other signs of shock

Change or worsening of peptic ulcer symptoms

How to treat a stomach ulcer at home?

Diet and lifestyle

MedlinePlus, from the National Library of Medicine, indicates that people with peptic ulcers should follow a healthy, balanced diet. Eating more frequently or increasing the amount of milk and dairy products consumed is not beneficial; in fact, these changes may increase stomach acid secretion.

Steps that can be taken to relieve symptoms and aid healing include:

Avoid foods and drinks that cause discomfort, such as alcohol, coffee, caffeinated sodas, fatty foods, chocolate, and spicy foods.

Avoid late-night snacking.

Quit smoking or chewing tobacco, as tobacco slows ulcer healing and increases the likelihood of recurrence.

Reduce stress levels and learn effective ways to cope with it.

Avoid medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, and use acetaminophen for pain relief. Be sure to take all medications with plenty of water.

Medications

Treatment for peptic ulcers and H. pylori infection involves a combination of medications taken for 5 to 14 days, usually including two types of antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor.

These medications may cause nausea, diarrhea, and other side effects; therefore, the site advises not to stop taking them without consulting a doctor.

If the ulcer is not caused by H. pylori infection, or is due to aspirin or NSAID use, a proton pump inhibitor is likely needed for 8 weeks. Taking antacids between meals and before bedtime may also aid healing.