Stomach acids are more potent than you might think! With the ability to dissolve metals, these acids can’t be underestimated. If they damage the stomach lining or small intestine, you could develop a stomach ulcer.
Affecting 5 to 10% of people across the globe, stomach ulcers are a prevalent global health concern. In the early stages, ulcer symptoms can be difficult to recognize, leading many people to leave them untreated. But, left without treatment, they can trigger more severe complications.
Consider the following stomach ulcer warning signs:
Bloating and a Sensation of Fullness
Stomach ulcers trigger inflammation in the stomach lining. The swelling may reduce the space in your stomach, making you feel fuller faster. You may have less of an appetite than usual, with no other known cause.
Burning Upper Abdomen Pain
A telltale symptom of stomach ulcers is burning pain in the upper abdomen. This pain tends to worsen with an empty stomach or at night, and it may be intermittent for several weeks. Antacids can provide temporary relief from this symptom, but it will return without proper treatment.
Fatigue and Paleness
Stomach ulcers can bleed without treatment. Over time, blood loss from the ulcer may lead to iron deficiency (anemia). Common anemia symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
Nausea and Vomiting
Sometimes, stomach ulcers lead to nausea and vomiting. This symptom is less common than bloating or burning abdominal pain but is more likely to occur on an empty stomach.
Dark, Bloody Stool and Blood in Vomit
Severe bleeding from a stomach ulcer is a medical emergency. Warning signs of heavy bleeding from an ulcer include:
- Black stool
- A stool that appears sticky or has red blood in it
- Bloody vomit
- Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Fainting and dizziness
If you experience the symptoms listed above, call 911 or head to the emergency room.
Improving your gastrointestinal health can lower your risk of stomach ulcers and related conditions. Reach out to the team at Body Flow Wellness today to learn more about our holistic treatments to support your GI wellness!