12 Signs of Ulcer Complications in Adults

Ulcers are a common health issue, affecting many adults due to various factors, including diet, stress, and access to healthcare. While an ulcer might start as a manageable health concern, it can lead to more severe complications if not adequately treated. Recognizing the signs of these complications early can make a significant difference in health outcomes, and in severe cases, save lives.

1. Persistent Pain That Becomes Worse

One of the first warning signs of ulcer complications is a change in the nature of the pain. Typical ulcer pain is often described as a gnawing or burning sensation in the stomach, and it might worsen when the stomach is empty. However, when an ulcer leads to complications, this pain may become sharper, more constant, or spread to other areas of the abdomen. In some cases, the pain may become so intense that it interferes with daily activities, leading the person to seek medical help. If you experience prolonged and worsening pain, it may signal complications that require urgent attention.

2. Blood in Vomit or Stool

Blood appearing in vomit or stool is a serious indicator of a bleeding ulcer, which is a significant ulcer complication. When an ulcer eats away at the stomach lining or small intestine, it may cause bleeding, which can appear as either fresh red blood or dark, coffee-ground-like material in vomit. Blood in the stool may appear as black, tarry stool (melena), which occurs because the blood has been partially digested as it passes through the intestines. Both of these signs require immediate medical attention, as they could indicate internal bleeding.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

While weight loss can result from various factors, unexpected and unexplained weight loss may be a warning sign of ulcer complications. An untreated ulcer can make it uncomfortable to eat, leading to reduced food intake and subsequent weight loss. In some cases, a more severe underlying problem, such as an ulcer-related infection or blockage, may be affecting the digestive system’s ability to absorb nutrients. If you notice a significant drop in weight without any changes in diet or lifestyle, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to identify the cause.

4. Nausea and Vomiting

Ulcers often cause discomfort and mild nausea, but in cases where the ulcer has become complicated, nausea and vomiting can become severe and persistent. For example, if an ulcer causes an obstruction in the digestive tract, it can lead to nausea, vomiting, and bloating, as the food and stomach acid have difficulty passing through the blocked area. In some instances, vomiting may even occur several hours after eating, indicating that the food is not moving through the digestive system as it should. Persistent vomiting, especially with other symptoms, is a warning sign that should not be ignored.

5. Feeling of Fullness and Bloating

For some adults with ulcers, a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount may occur. This can happen when ulcers cause inflammation, narrowing, or obstruction in parts of the stomach or intestines. People experiencing this symptom often feel uncomfortable or bloated, even after consuming small portions of food. This feeling of fullness can also lead to a reduced appetite over time, affecting overall nutrition and well-being.

ALSO READ: Best Hospitals in Nigeria for Ulcer Treatment

6. Severe Fatigue and Weakness

Fatigue can result from several health issues, but when associated with an ulcer, it may indicate complications like chronic bleeding. Slow, persistent bleeding from an ulcer can lead to anemia—a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells. Anemia can cause symptoms such as extreme tiredness, weakness, dizziness, and pale skin. These symptoms develop because the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to tissues and organs. In cases where fatigue is severe and accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, seeking medical assistance is vital.

7. Sharp, Sudden Abdominal Pain

A sharp and sudden pain in the abdomen can be a sign of a perforated ulcer, one of the most serious ulcer complications. A perforated ulcer occurs when the ulcer creates a hole in the stomach or intestinal wall, allowing digestive fluids and food particles to leak into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to peritonitis, an infection of the abdominal cavity that requires emergency treatment. The pain associated with a perforated ulcer is usually sudden, severe, and can spread throughout the abdomen. Anyone experiencing this type of pain should seek immediate medical attention, as a perforated ulcer is a life-threatening condition.

8. Loss of Appetite

While mild appetite changes can happen for various reasons, a noticeable and persistent loss of appetite may signal an ulcer complication, particularly if accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. Loss of appetite can lead to unintentional weight loss and may indicate an obstruction in the digestive tract due to the ulcer. Addressing appetite changes early on can help prevent further complications from developing.

ALSO READ: Different Types of Headaches and Their Treatment

9. Symptoms of Infection, Such as Fever

Fever may not be a direct symptom of an ulcer, but it can occur if the ulcer leads to infection. For instance, if an ulcer perforates the stomach or intestine wall, bacteria can enter the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis, which often presents with fever, chills, and abdominal pain. Additionally, fever can accompany a gastric or duodenal ulcer infection caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, a common cause of ulcers in Nigerian adults. A fever associated with ulcer symptoms should be promptly addressed by a healthcare professional.

10. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is not a typical symptom of an uncomplicated ulcer, but it can occur in cases of severe anemia or as a result of blood loss. When anemia becomes significant, the body struggles to transport sufficient oxygen to various organs, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, even with minimal exertion. This symptom can also indicate that blood loss from the ulcer has been ongoing for a while, further emphasizing the need for immediate medical intervention.

11. Dizziness and Lightheadedness

Dizziness or lightheadedness can accompany ulcer complications, especially if there has been substantial blood loss. When blood loss is continuous but slow, it can lead to a gradual decrease in red blood cells, causing anemia and resulting in symptoms like dizziness, especially when standing up or moving suddenly. Severe blood loss can lead to fainting or a sense of feeling faint. If you experience dizziness along with any other ulcer-related symptoms, it’s essential to get evaluated by a medical professional.

12. Persistent Heartburn and Acid Reflux

While heartburn is a common symptom associated with ulcers, persistent or worsening heartburn can be a sign of an ulcer complication. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation. In cases where an ulcer has worsened, the acid production might become excessive, leading to frequent episodes of acid reflux and severe heartburn. If you experience heartburn that doesn’t improve with standard treatments or worsens over time, it may indicate a more advanced issue with the ulcer.

ALSO READ: Top Nigerian Supplements for Ulcer Management

Risk Factors for Ulcer Complications in Nigerian Adults

While ulcers can affect anyone, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing complications:

1. Stress: High levels of stress can worsen ulcer symptoms and slow the healing process.
2. Diet: Spicy and acidic foods, common in many Nigerian diets, can irritate ulcers and lead to complications.
3. Smoking and Alcohol Use: Both smoking and alcohol increase stomach acid production and can slow the healing of an ulcer.
4. Certain Medications: Overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can worsen or complicate ulcers.
5. H. pylori Infection: The presence of this bacterium is a common cause of ulcers and can lead to complications if left untreated.

Preventing Ulcer Complications

To prevent ulcer complications, taking certain steps can be beneficial:

1. Regular Check-Ups: Regular visits to the doctor can help catch any changes in ulcer status early.
2. Medication Adherence: Following prescribed treatments can help manage ulcer symptoms and prevent complications.
3. Dietary Changes: Avoiding foods that irritate the stomach, such as spicy or acidic foods, can reduce ulcer symptoms.
4. Managing Stress: Reducing stress levels through relaxation techniques can help prevent symptoms from worsening.
5. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Reducing or quitting smoking and alcohol can help the stomach lining heal more effectively.

ALSO READ: Cost of Ulcer Treatment in Nigeria’s Private Hospitals