This condition is often confused with three similar conditions, which are:
These terms are sometimes used interchangeably.
The primary difference between a stress ulcer and a peptic ulcer is what causes them.
While stress can make peptic ulcers worse, stress is not the cause.
Jose Luis Pelaez / Getty Images
They may also have similar symptoms, such as pain in the upper abdomen.
However, they are different conditions.
Gastropathy, however, causes damage to the lining of the stomach.Additionally, gastropathy can lead to peptic ulcers.
As the mucosal lining deteriorates, stress ulcers begin to form.
Risk factors include:
Where a Stress Ulcer Is Found
Stress ulcers are found in thegastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms that are less severe include pain in the stomach region and nausea.
Once diagnosed, stress ulcers can be treated with medications.
They are often confused with peptic ulcers, gastritis, and gastropathy, but these similar conditions have differences.
Symptoms include stomach pain, vomiting, and bleeding.
Sometimes having stress ulcers can lengthen your hospital stay or lead to other complications.
Fortunately, this condition is treatable and help is available.
Harvard Medical School.Medical dictionary of health terms: Ulcer.
2014;3(2).
National Institutes of Health.Definition & facts for gastritis & gastropathy.
National Institutes of Health.Definition & facts for peptic ulcers.
National Institutes of Health.Gastritis & gastropathy.
2015;41(5):833-45. doi:10.1007/s00134-015-3725-1
Siddiqui AH, Farooq U, Siddiqui F.Curling Ulcer.
Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2021.
2014;61(3):C4811.
