The most common causes of peptic ulcers are infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). Stress and spicy foods do not cause peptic ulcers.

How are ulcers caused?

Stomach ulcers are usually caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These can break down the stomach's defence against the acid it produces to digest food, allowing the stomach lining to become damaged and an ulcer to form.

Can stress cause ulcers?

Stress ulcers come on suddenly, usually as a result of physiological stress. Some acidic foods can make ulcers worse , as can physical stress, such as the stress of a serious injury or infection. This may be because stress increases stomach acid.