How does a peptic ulcer disease affect your digestive system?

Varies: Ulcers can cause pain, nausea, vomiting, bleeding, anemia or weight loss. Ironically, most ulcers are probably asymptomatic.

Peptic Ulcer Disease: A peptic ulcer is a sore in the inner lining of the stomach or upper small intestine (duodenum). Ulcers develop when the intestine or stomach's protective layer is broken down. When this happens, digestive juices can damage the intestine or stomach tissue. These strong juices, which contain hydrochloric acid and an enzyme called pepsin, also can injure the esophagus. You can pass or vomit blood.