Peptic Ulcer

Peptic ulcer is mucosal break (>=5 mm) in stomach/duodenum/gastrojejunal region exposed to acid-pepsin, due to H. pylori infection, NSAIDs, Zollinger-Ellison, or stress, presenting with epigastric pain, bleeding, and possible perforation/obstruction. Treatment: PPI 4-8 weeks; H. pylori eradication (quadruple therapy) if positive; stop NSAIDs; endoscopy with biopsy (rule out gastric malignancy); treat complications (endoscopic hemostasis/surgery for bleeding; surgical repair for perforation; dilation/stent for obstruction); mucosal protectants; lifestyle (avoid alcohol/smoking/NSAIDs); evaluate Zollinger-Ellison if refractory/multiple; long-term follow-up to confirm healing.

Common Symptoms

Epigastric pain (food relation variable); bleeding/black stools; by H. pylori/NSAID/stress/ZES

Causes and Pathogenesis

H. pylori/NSAID/acid excess causes gastroduodenal mucosal ulceration.

Treatment

PPI; H. pylori eradication; stop NSAIDs; endoscopy; treat complications; evaluate ZES if refractory

Preventive Measures

H. pylori screening/treatment; avoid NSAIDs; limit alcohol/smoking.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Gastroenterology/Emergency/Surgery department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.