Pain associated with peptic ulceration

Dear Ask The Doctor: Can ulcer pain radiate to my back an around my breast?

Dear Nkechi: Pain associated with gastritis (inflammation of the stomach) and gastric ulceration typically occurs in the epigastrium (just below the breast bone) is worse when you are hungry, when the stomach is empty, and is relieved by food, milky substances or antacids. Symptoms also occur at night, between 11 PM and 2 AM, when stomach acid secretion is maximal. Discomfort occurs in the epigastrium in about two-thirds of patients, but may occasionally localize to the right or left upper quadrants of the abdomen. Radiation of pain to the back may occur, but primary back pain is atypical. Although ulcer pain is often burning, gnawing, or hunger-like in quality, the discomfort can also be vague or cramping. From your medications list you are on triple therapy eradication for H. pylori, and omeprazole should improve your symptoms by reducing acid secretion. However if your symptoms are not improving, I would advise consulting your family doctor or gastroenterologist. .