A perforated ulcer is a red section in the coating of the stomach or the upper intestine which creates a hollow in the tissue. The stomach acid, food and bacteria might enter via the hole and into the abdomen. The blood vessels or adjacent structures such as the liver and pancreas might be impaired which can lead to a dangerous infection.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26Rdx2EiBaA
What is the cause?
The stomach and intestinal lining generally prevents damage from the stomach acid. Once this protective barrier degenerates, the stomach acid can impair the walls of the intestine and stomach and result to the formation of an ulcer. In case the ulcer becomes deep or too big, it can create a hole in the intestine or stomach.
What are the indications?
A perforated ulcer can cause symptoms that might arise rapidly. The usual signs include:
- Fever and chills
- Abrupt, piercing abdominal pain that does not subside
- Weakness or feeling faint
- Vomiting with blood or appears as coffee grounds
Management of a perforated ulcer
An individual with a perforated ulcer requires hospitalization. Emergency treatment for blood loss is started and surgery is necessary to seal the hole.
A tube might be inserted via the nose or mouth that moves down into the stomach. This tube can be utilized to administer fluids or medications or help lessen the pressure from air or fluids present in the stomach and intestine.
Other treatment options include the following:
- Drugs to lower the acidity in the stomach
- Pain medications
- Medications that coats and protects the stomach and intestinal lining from the stomach acid
- Antibiotics to prevent or manage an infection
Once the individual can eat again, he/she is on a liquid diet for 24 hours or longer. This is followed by soft foods until the stomach has healed.