Gastric ulcer (stomach ulcer)
About Gastric ulcer (stomach ulcer)
An erosion of the lining of the stomach. At times these ulcers can cause life-threatening bleeding. Rarely the ulcers are secondary to cancer. An infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can increase the incidence and severity of the disease. The following conditions increase the risk of this disorder: drinking alcohol, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs / NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin), smoking, and physical stress (infections, trauma, hospital admissions). Rarely the ulcer can extend through the entire lining of the stomach (perforation) and result in a life threatening abdominal infection (peritonitis).Symptoms
Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, vomiting blood, vomiting material that has the appearance of coffee grounds, black stools (melena), bloody stools, burning in chest.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Other tests to determine the extent of disease include: nasogastric tube lavage, rectal exam, EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), and blood tests.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG, Lipase, X-ray.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment depends on the severity of the illness and includes: proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole/Prilosec, pantoprazole/Protonix), H2 blockers (cimetidine/Tagamet, ranitidine/Zantac), endoscopic cauterization of bleeding, intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, antibiotics if caused by H. pylori, and hospitalization. Surgery may be necessary if complications, such as perforation or uncontrolled bleeding, develop.Medical specialties
Gastroenterology · Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pediatric Gastroenterology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Gastric ulcer (stomach ulcer).