Ulcer Danger Signs: When Stomach Pain Is an Emergency
Most stomach ulcers are uncomfortable rather than dangerous, and they heal with treatment. But a small number cause serious complications that need emergency care. Knowing the signs can save a life.
Signs of a bleeding ulcer
- Vomiting blood, which may be bright red or look like coffee grounds
- Black, sticky, tar-like stools, or stools with dark red blood
- Feeling faint, dizzy or light-headed, especially when standing
- Unusual paleness, sweating or a racing heartbeat
- Sudden tiredness or breathlessness, which can signal significant blood loss
Signs of a perforated ulcer
A perforation is a hole through the wall of the stomach or duodenum. Signs include:
- Sudden, severe, sharp pain in the abdomen that spreads and keeps getting worse
- A hard, rigid abdomen
- Fever, vomiting and feeling very unwell
Signs of a blockage
Swelling or scarring near the outlet of the stomach can block food from passing. Signs include:
- Repeated vomiting, sometimes of food eaten hours earlier
- Feeling full after a few bites
- Unintended weight loss
What to do
- Seek emergency care immediately. Go to the nearest emergency department or call your local emergency number.
- Do not drive yourself if you feel faint.
- Do not eat or drink until you have been assessed, in case you need a procedure.
- Take a list of your medicines, especially painkillers, aspirin and blood thinners.
Who should be extra careful
- People over 60
- Those taking aspirin, NSAIDs, blood thinners or steroids
- Anyone with a previous ulcer or bleed
Other symptoms that need a prompt doctor's visit
Not emergencies, but they should be checked soon: unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, persistent vomiting, anaemia, or new indigestion that starts later in life.
Key takeaway
Most stomach pain is not an emergency. But blood in vomit, black stools, fainting or sudden severe pain always are. Act fast, then treat the underlying cause so it does not happen again.
Medical disclaimer. This article is general health information, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The HealAlright team are not doctors. Always talk to a qualified health professional about your symptoms and before starting, changing or stopping any medicine. If you vomit blood, pass black stools, feel faint or have sudden severe stomach pain, seek emergency care immediately.
