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- Peptic Ulcer (and Ulcer Complications)
- SYMPTOMS. Mild or moderately severe, burning, gnawing or aching pain in the
- upper abdomen, empty feeling, hunger and soreness. Signs for an ulcer in the
- first portion of the intestine (Duodenal Ulcer), the pain usually appears
- about mid-morning although it may awaken the person at night. Antacid or
- food usually relieves the pain but it reoccurs in an hour or so. If Gastric
- Ulcer, eating may not relieve pain.
- CAUSES are not entirely clear at this time. It involves the impaired ability
- of the stomach lining to protect itself from excessive acid secretion.
- COMPLICATIONS could possibly include perforation of the ulcer. This is a
- tear in the duodenal or stomach wall. It may be accompanied by very severe
- abdominal pain, fever, shallow breathing and tenderness over the ulcer site.
- Complication may include Massive Hemorrhage which may lead to weakness,
- profuse sweating, tarry stools, vomiting of blood and faintness. Another
- complication may be an obstruction of the stomach outlet into the small
- intestine which may produce foul belching and vomiting.
- TREATMENT. Consult your doctor immediately.
- .Perforation is a medical emergency because the tear must be closed.
- .X-ray may be required for definite diagnosis.
- .If massive hemorrhage, surgery may be required.
- .If obstruction does not clear, surgery may be required.