Signs and SymptomsSigns and symptoms of peptic ulcer include a burning pain felt from the navel to the sternum that is often worse when the stomach is empty and mostly flares up during night and is temporarily relieved by eating or taking antacids. Other signs and symptoms include vomiting blood, which may appear red or black, dark blood in the stool or black or tarry stools, and nausea or vomiting (Mayo Clinic, 2014). CausesPeptic ulcers occur due to acid in the stool. digestive tract that eats away at the mucous layer that normally protects against acid, which is the inner surface of the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine. The acid then creates a painful open wound that can bleed. Additionally, if you experience an increase in stomach acid and a decrease in the amount of mucus, peptic ulcers may develop. Things that can compromise the mucous membranes include the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and regular use of certain medications and painkillers (Mayo Clinic, 2014). Risk Factors Risk factors for peptic ulcer include smoking and drinking