symptoms of a stress ulcer

2 min read 08-03-2025

Stress ulcers, also known as acute gastritis, are sores that develop in the lining of your stomach or duodenum (the upper part of your small intestine). Unlike peptic ulcers, which are often caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria or long-term use of NSAIDs, stress ulcers are typically triggered by severe illness, injury, or major stress. Understanding the symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. This article will help you recognize potential signs and when to seek medical attention.

Common Symptoms of Stress Ulcers

Stress ulcers don't always present with obvious symptoms. However, some common signs might include:

Digestive Issues:

Abdominal Pain: This is often the most noticeable symptom. It can range from mild discomfort to severe, sharp pain in the upper abdomen. The pain might worsen after eating.
Heartburn: A burning sensation in your chest, often rising from your stomach. This can be accompanied by a sour taste in your mouth.
Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach and vomiting are common, possibly containing blood (looking like coffee grounds) or appearing dark and tarry.
Indigestion: A feeling of fullness, discomfort, or burning in the upper abdomen after eating.
Loss of Appetite: You might find yourself with less interest in food, leading to weight loss.

Other Potential Symptoms:

Fatigue and Weakness: Stress itself can cause fatigue, but ulcers can exacerbate this feeling, leaving you unusually tired and weak.
Black, Tarry Stools (Melena): This indicates bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract. It's a serious sign requiring immediate medical attention.
Bloody Vomit (Hematamesis): Vomiting bright red blood or blood that resembles coffee grounds is a serious symptom indicating significant bleeding.
Lightheadedness or Dizziness: Significant blood loss from a stress ulcer can lead to a drop in blood pressure, causing lightheadedness or dizziness.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While some mild digestive discomfort is common, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Severe abdominal pain: Intense or persistent pain warrants immediate medical evaluation.
Bloody vomit or black, tarry stools: These are signs of potentially life-threatening bleeding.
Signs of shock: This includes rapid pulse, low blood pressure, and cold, clammy skin.
Persistent vomiting: Inability to keep down fluids or food.

Causes of Stress Ulcers

Stress ulcers are often associated with:

Severe illness: Conditions like sepsis, pneumonia, or burns can trigger stress ulcers.
Major trauma: Serious injuries, such as head injuries or major surgeries, can increase the risk.
Severe burns: Extensive burns are a significant risk factor for stress ulcer development.
Major surgery: Large surgical procedures increase the risk of stress ulcers.
Intensive care unit (ICU) stay: Patients in the ICU are at higher risk due to the severity of their illnesses.
Use of certain medications: Some medications, particularly NSAIDs, can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing a stress ulcer typically involves a physical exam and possibly endoscopy (a procedure to visualize the stomach lining). Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid production, protect the stomach lining, and stop bleeding. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. They can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the appropriate course of action.