Ulcer, duodenal

The duodenum is the first segment of the small intestine and is closest to the stomach. Through stress or poor eating habits, such as the chronic consumption of alcohol and other irritants), the stomach can overproduce hydrochloric acid, which can eat away the lining of the duodenum, creating an ulcer. Symptoms include a burning pain felt in the upper or middle abdomen, especially when the stomach is empty. People often take antacids to alleviate the symptoms, but they are not usually curative.