Can stomach ulcers cause bleeding?

Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
Updated on March 08, 2025
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Gastric ulcers with bleeding are relatively common in clinical practice, and bleeding is a common complication of gastric ulcers, so it is considered that gastric ulcers can lead to bleeding. The typical clinical manifestation of a gastric ulcer is abdominal pain. Of course, gastrointestinal bleeding is a common complication, generally presenting as vomiting blood or passing bloody stools, with a considerable amount of bleeding leading to vomiting blood in patients. The diagnosis of gastric ulcers relies on gastroscopy. Therefore, in clinical practice, if patients seek medical advice due to abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding, and gastric ulcers are suspected, we recommend that patients promptly complete a gastroscopy to assess the condition. When patients with gastric ulcers experience bleeding, it is advisable for them to fast and intensify treatment with oral stomach-protecting drugs. Of course, if the blood pressure is low and vital signs are unstable, some medications to replenish blood volume might be added, and if necessary, surgical operations to stop the bleeding may be performed.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How is a gastric ulcer diagnosed?

Gastric ulcers are inflammatory defects that occur on the gastric mucosa, related to the gastric acid and digestive actions of gastric juices. Diagnosis mainly relies on clinical manifestations and auxiliary examinations, with typical symptoms including recurring or periodic upper abdominal pain that worsens after eating, as well as occurrences of belching. X-ray barium meal examinations can reveal filling defects, and gastroscopy can provide a full view of the ulcer. Treatment primarily involves the use of medications that suppress gastric acid secretion and protect the gastric mucosa. Additionally, it is important to enhance health education, eat less spicy and greasy food, have meals regularly and in measured amounts, and consume more green vegetables. (Specific medication use should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How to stop bleeding from a gastric ulcer?

Gastric ulcer bleeding is a relatively common complication. Treatment methods can be selected based on the endoscopic characteristics of the bleeding lesion. Active bleeding can be treated with acid-suppressing medications such as proton pump inhibitors, combined with endoscopic treatment, and if necessary, vascular interventional treatment or surgery. For those with blood clots, proton pump inhibitors can also be chosen, with endoscopic treatment if necessary. During endoscopy, fibrin glue can be sprayed on the surface of the ulcer, adrenaline can be injected at the bleeding site, and endoscopic hemostatic clip techniques can be used. During treatment, it’s important to adjust the diet. For those with significant bleeding, temporary parenteral nutrition should be chosen, and no food should be consumed to avoid further gastrointestinal irritation. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What causes bleeding from gastric ulcers?

Gastric ulcers can cause damage to the gastric mucosa, and if the ulcer further affects the blood vessels, it can lead to rupture of the vessels and cause bleeding. Therefore, gastric ulcers should be treated actively. If the amount of bleeding is substantial, it is advisable to opt for endoscopic hemostasis or use hemostatic medications, while also treating the ulcer fundamentally. If the ulcer is large, a major part of the stomach may be removed surgically. Post-operative care is crucial, including maintaining a balanced diet; the diet should consist mainly of soft, easily digestible foods, with an emphasis on consuming more vegetables and fruits, and avoiding spicy and cold foods.

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Written by Li Xue Qing
Gastroenterology
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What foods to eat for gastric ulcers?

People with stomach ulcers should eat foods that are easy to digest and high in protein and vitamins, such as soft rice, porridge, and noodles. Foods rich in protein include fish, milk, and walnuts. Foods high in vitamins include tomatoes, carrots, bean sprouts, and spinach. Patients with stomach ulcers should avoid spicy and stimulating foods such as chili peppers, garlic, leeks, and ginger, as well as seasonings like cinnamon, star anise, and Sichuan pepper. They should also avoid overly acidic foods, raw and cold foods, fried foods, and foods that are high in rough fiber.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What should be noted for gastric ulcers?

Gastric ulcers are closely related to lifestyle, dietary habits, and work stress. First, it is important to rest more and reduce mental stress. Secondly, improve dietary habits by eating regular meals, consuming more vegetables and fruits, and easy-to-digest foods while reducing the intake of spicy, greasy, and irritating foods. Pay strict attention to quitting smoking and alcohol, drinking less strong tea and coffee, actively use medications that inhibit gastric acid secretion and protect the gastric mucosa, and persist in taking medication as prescribed by a doctor. Avoid life's irritants, strengthen physical exercise, and engage in more outdoor activities to regulate physical and mental health.