Stress ulcer
Stress ulcer
A stress ulcer is a type of peptic ulcer that is a mucosal defect which can be caused by an imbalance between the aggressive and defensive factors in the gastrointestinal tract.
Pronunciation
Stress ulcer: /ˈstrɛs ˈʌlsər/
Etymology
The term "stress ulcer" is derived from the English words "stress", which refers to a state of mental or emotional strain or tension, and "ulcer", which is a term of Latin origin ('ulcus') meaning a sore on the skin or a mucous membrane.
Definition
A stress ulcer is a type of peptic ulcer that is often associated with severe illness, trauma, or surgery. It is characterized by multiple, usually small lesions within the stomach and proximal duodenum.
Causes
Stress ulcers are caused by an increase in gastric acid secretion, a decrease in mucosal blood flow, and direct mucosal injury. They are often associated with conditions such as sepsis, shock, severe trauma, and major surgery.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a stress ulcer can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes gastrointestinal bleeding which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Treatment
Treatment for stress ulcers typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the stomach lining, such as proton pump inhibitors and H2 receptor blockers. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stress ulcer
- Wikipedia's article - Stress ulcer
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