Condition Ulcers

Condition Ulcers

What are ulcers?

Ulcers are open sores which form when a break in the skin or lining of an organ doesn’t heal properly.

They can occur all over the body, including:

  • in your mouth
  • in your oesophagus (the tube that passes food and liquid from your mouth to your stomach)
  • in the lining of your stomach (gastric ulcers) or the upper part of your small intestine (duodenal ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers)
  • in the lining of your colon (ulcerative colitis)
  • around your genitals, anus, thighs, or bottom
  • on your lower legs and feet

Because ulcers are open wounds (meaning tissue under the affected skin or organ lining is exposed), there is a risk of bleeding and infection. An infection may cause fever (a high temperature), swelling, discharge, or increased pain, and it could slow down the healing process or cause complications.

What causes ulcers?

Ulcers can be a symptom of:

  • a problem with the immune system due to a condition such as HIV or Crohn’s disease
  • blood flow problems, such as in peripheral arterial disease (PAD) where fatty deposits build up in the arteries
  • a viral or bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like genital herpes
  • damaged nerves (neuropathy), as minor injuries can go unnoticed
  • damage to the stomach lining due to long-term use or high doses of certain medicines (for example, ibuprofen)
  • inflammation of your mouth or gut (mucositis), a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy

Ulcers may also develop due to a physical injury. This is common in mouth ulcers, as they can be caused by biting, cutting, or burning the inside of your cheek during eating or drinking.

If you have mobility problems, you’re at particular risk of pressure ulcers (also known as pressure sores or bed sores) because of the persistent pressure or rubbing on parts of your body.

Diabetes, smoking, obesity, and being underweight are among the factors that can put you at increased risk of ulcers.

Next steps

Step 1. Check out our external support

Browse our recommended external support resources to learn more about your condition and ways to manage it.
Step 2. Contact a Healthcare Professional

If you need further support or have concerns, a Healthcare Professional is here to help. Reach out for professional medical advice tailored to you.
Step 3. View our services

Discover services and support options available to help you with your health and wellbeing.

Managing your health

There are a number of national and local organisations who can support you and help you manage health conditions at home. 

Wound Management Service

  • Adults

Specialist advice and treatment for skin ulcers and complex wounds. Also known as the Tissue Viability Service.

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Lower Limb Service (East Berkshire)

  • Adults

Specialist nursing for leg ulcers, including wound care management, assessments, and compression therapy.

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Podiatry Service

  • Adults

Care for foot health issues that may affect mobility, such as wounds, infections, ingrown toenails, and structural abnormalities.

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External support

Further information on the NHS UK website 

Crohn's & Colitis UK

Information and support for people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) 

Legs Matter

Information about preventing and managing lower leg and foot conditions