What are the symptoms of peptic ulcer disease?

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Symptoms of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Common Symptoms: Epigastric Pain and Discomfort

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is primarily characterized by epigastric pain, which is the most common symptom reported by patients. This pain is often described as a burning or gnawing sensation in the middle or upper stomach, particularly between meals or at night . The pain may be temporarily relieved by food intake or antacids, and it can sometimes cause awakening at night .

Associated Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, Bloating, and Dyspepsia

In addition to epigastric pain, patients with PUD frequently experience a range of gastrointestinal symptoms. These include nausea, bloating, abdominal fullness, and dyspepsia (indigestion) . Some patients may also report early satiety, which is the feeling of being full after eating only a small amount of food.

Severe Symptoms: Bleeding, Vomiting, and Weight Loss

In more severe cases of PUD, symptoms can escalate to include vomiting (sometimes with blood), significant weight loss, and dark or black stools due to gastrointestinal bleeding . These symptoms indicate complications such as bleeding ulcers, which require immediate medical attention .

Mental Health Symptoms: Anxiety and Depression

Interestingly, PUD is also associated with mental health symptoms. Patients, particularly females, often report higher rates of anxiety, depression, and neurasthenia (a condition characterized by chronic fatigue and weakness) compared to the general population. These mental symptoms should be considered in the therapeutic management of PUD.

Alarm Symptoms: Indicators of Complications

Certain alarm symptoms necessitate prompt medical evaluation, as they may indicate complications or malignancy. These include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, unexplained weight loss, and signs of gastrointestinal bleeding such as hematemesis (vomiting blood) or melena (black, tarry stools) . Older patients and those with these alarm symptoms should undergo endoscopy to rule out serious conditions.

Conclusion

Peptic ulcer disease presents with a variety of symptoms, ranging from common epigastric pain and gastrointestinal discomfort to severe complications like bleeding and significant weight loss. Mental health symptoms such as anxiety and depression are also prevalent among PUD patients. Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking appropriate medical care is crucial for effective management and prevention of serious complications.