SHOULD I BE WORRIED IF I HAVE ULCER?
An estimated 1 in 10 people in Western countries will have an ulcer in the stomach or small intestine at some point in their lives.
However, the symptoms tend to be more distinct than other health conditions, an ulcer or sore in the abdomen can produce a burning or dull pain in the center of the abdomen. People sometimes describe the pain as a biting or gnawing pain. Some individuals may describe a hungry sensation.
Other symptoms include:
Unexplained weight loss
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Frequent burping
Bloating
A feeling of fullness and problems drinking as much fluids as usual
Bloody or black, tarry stools
Chest pain
Fatigue
etc.
Anyone who thinks they may have an ulcer in their stomach should seek medical attention, especially if the symptoms last for more than a few days or keep happening.
For some Individuals the ulcer may be relieved by eating, drinking, or taking antacids.
However some ulcers, when left untreated can cause a hole in the stomach wall, leading to internal bleeding which in turn will cause hemodynamic instability and affect multiple organs in the body.
The risk of complications increases when ulcer is left untreated, do not wait until it worsens, seek help now.