What is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease?

Epigastric pain after meals is a classic symptom of peptic ulcer disease. Patients often report a burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, which tends to be exacerbated by eating, especially if the meal is large or certain irritating foods are consumed. The pain can vary in intensity and may improve temporarily after taking antacids or eating. This symptom is closely associated with the pathophysiology of peptic ulcers, which are lesions in the gastric or duodenal lining typically caused by factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, excessive use of NSAIDs, or increased gastric acid secretion.

The other symptoms listed may occur in various conditions but are not as characteristic of peptic ulcer disease. Sudden weight loss can indicate more serious complications or other illnesses, while severe vomiting might suggest a different gastrointestinal problem, such as an obstructive process. Fever and chills typically suggest an infection rather than a direct symptom of peptic ulcer disease. Therefore, the presence of epigastric pain after meals serves as a more definitive indicator of this specific condition.