Warning Signs Of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Anemia

Peptic ulcers are open sores that occur in the stomach’s lining or intestines and are categorized as gastric ulcers or duodenal ulcers due to their location. These ulcers are often caused by a bacterial infection that breaks down the lining in the stomach or small intestines. Unfortunately, peptic ulcers can lead to anemia due to the internal bleeding they create, and bleeding ulcers can go unnoticed for some time, and may even cause life-threatening hemorrhages. Many patients are not even aware that the ulcer is bleeding until symptoms of anemia appear, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, a lack of energy, lightheadedness, and pale skin. A heavily bleeding ulcer may cause black and sticky stools and bloody vomit that looks like coffee grounds. If a patient is experiencing any of these symptoms and they have peptic ulcer disease, they should seek medical attention immediately.