Bruce Springsteen is being treated for peptic ulcer disease. What causes it?

Bruce Springsteen announced Thursday that he's postponing a slate of concerts in September on the advice of doctors who are treating him for peptic ulcer disease.

The legendary rocker posted a note to his official Instagram page informing fans that starting with his scheduled Sept. 7 concert in Syracuse, New York, he would be taking a break from performing due to his condition.

In August, Springsteen uncharacteristically postponed two concerts at Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park, citing illness. But he was back for a trio of hometown stadium stompers at Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, that kicked off Aug. 30 and wrapped Sept. 3.

Fans who aren’t familiar with this common and potentially serious gastrointestinal problem may wonder how it could sideline The Boss, who turns 74 later this month.

Here’s what to know about the disease.

What is peptic ulcer disease?

Peptic ulcer disease is a condition marked by open sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach and the small intestine, according to Mayo Clinic.

Two common types of peptic ulcers include gastric ulcers, which occur on the inside of the stomach, and duodenal ulcers which occur on the inside of the upper portion of a person's small intestine, or duodenum.

Risk factors for developing peptic ulcers include smoking, alcohol consumption, untreated stress and eating spicy foods, per Mayo Clinic.

About 8 million people worldwide suffer from the disease.

What are the symptoms of peptic ulcer disease?

The most common symptoms of peptic ulcer disease are burning stomach pain, heartburn, nausea and bloating or belching, according to Mayo Clinic.

Severe symptoms of the disease can include vomiting, breathing difficulties, feeling faint, appetite changes and unexplained weight loss.

However, many people affected by peptic ulcers are asymptomatic, per Mayo Clinic.

What causes peptic ulcer disease?

The most common cause of peptic ulcers is long-term use of anti-inflammatory pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen, according to Dr. Lawrence Kosinski of the American Gastroenterological Association.

"As you get older, they’re more injurious to the lining of the stomach," Kosinski said.

Another cause may be an infection with bacteria called Helicobacter pylori.

Contrary to common belief, stress and spicy foods don't cause these ulcers, though they can make the symptoms worse. Alcohol use, even at moderate levels, can also exacerbate the problem, Kosinski said.

How serious is peptic ulcer disease?

Peptic ulcer disease can be dangerous, leading to bleeding and emergency situations such as perforation of the ulcer through the stomach.

Typical treatment uses common drugs called proton pump inhibitors, such as Prilosec, which can help heal ulcers within four to six weeks.

People who are treated "recover completely from peptic ulcer disease,” Kosinski said.

How can I prevent peptic ulcer disease?

While it's unclear how the Helicobacter pylori bacteria spreads, per Mayo Clinic, some evidence suggests transmission can occur via person-to-person contact or through food and water consumption.

Basic hygiene practices such as hand washing and eating foods that have been properly cooked can help protect against infection that can cause ulcers.

Given how regular pain reliever use can predispose someone to the disease, consultation with a doctor to find the lowest possible dosage can help minimize the risk of stomach issues, according to Mayo Clinic.

Other intake practices, such as taking medication with meals and avoiding drinking alcohol, can further reduce the potential for stomach upset.

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Contributing: Melissa Ruggieri and Edward Segarra, USA TODAY