Peptic Ulcer Disease
Painful ulcer that are acidic in nature and are the most common type of ulcer in the GI tract. A major factor that is involved with this condition is the bacteria Helicobacter pylori that live in the acidic environment of the stomach. A majority of these ulcers are found within the duodenum. Ulcers that are in the chronic state can leave permanent scar tissue in the lining of the GI tract. (Lau, Sung et al. 2011) Demographics: Peptic Ulcer Disease affects about 4.5 million Americans each year and affects males slightly more than females. Age may be a contributing factor to the occurrence of PUD, but it may only be because the use of NSAIDS is increased as we age. Those that use NSAIDS are much more likely to be affected by PUD and are the primary cause of the condition. (Lau, Sung et al. 2011)
Clinical Presentation:
Signs and Symptoms
Differential Diagnosis: If the patient has unexplained back pain from T6 to T10 which was not caused by trauma, this could be a red flag. Other red flags may be severe stomach pain, and bloody stools. This information can be obtained during the patient history portion of the initial exam. (Goodman 2007)
Bottom Line: Refer out
If the patient presents with the above signs and symptoms, they should see their primary physician for further testing.
Clinical Presentation:
Signs and Symptoms
- Heartburn aggravated by food (gastric ulcer); relieved by food, milk, antacids, or vomiting (duodenal ulcer)
- Night pain
- Radiating back pain between T6 and T10
- Stomach pain
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Bloody or black stools
Differential Diagnosis: If the patient has unexplained back pain from T6 to T10 which was not caused by trauma, this could be a red flag. Other red flags may be severe stomach pain, and bloody stools. This information can be obtained during the patient history portion of the initial exam. (Goodman 2007)
Bottom Line: Refer out
If the patient presents with the above signs and symptoms, they should see their primary physician for further testing.
References:
Please refer to the "Peptic Ulcer Disease" section of the reference list.
Please refer to the "Peptic Ulcer Disease" section of the reference list.