Ulcers are basically sores that appear on the inner lining of our digestive tract. Since our digestive tract is divided into four parts—esophagus, stomach, duodenum (which is the topmost part of the intestine) and the remaining intestines, the ulcer can develop on part of the digestive tract. The most common ulcers are found in the duodenal region. Contrary to popular belief, ulcers develop due to an infection caused by a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori or H-pylori. This ulcer is than aggravated if the digestive tract produces excessive amounts o acid and juices, or if the lining of your digestive tract is damaged due to some reason. The first thing that you need to do is to get rid of the bacteria. For this, a consultation with your local physician would be a good idea, as this will require a certain amount medication. The second step would be to lower the amount of acid that is produced in your digestive tract. For this, if you are a habitual smoker, stop smoking immediately. You will also need to drastically cut down on your alcohol consumption. Both smoking and alcohol cause excessive damage to the lining of digestive tract. So does caffeine and spicy and oily food. You will need to cut down on these as well, at least till the lining does not heal, if not longer. Although, a permanent change in diet would be a good idea to ensure that the ulcer does not recur.