What complications can duodenal ulcers cause?
Disease description:
Patients with duodenal ulcers who frequently experience abdominal pain—particularly on an empty stomach—and have not yet received treatment, may be concerned about potential complications. What complications can arise from duodenal ulcers?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Common complications of duodenal ulcers include bleeding, perforation, and obstruction. Duodenal ulcers can erode blood vessels, leading to symptoms such as hematemesis (vomiting blood), melena (black tarry stools), and gastrointestinal bleeding—prompt medical evaluation and treatment are essential. Deep or large ulcers may result in perforation, characterized by severe abdominal pain that can spread throughout the entire abdomen; in severe cases, emergency surgery is required. Recurrent duodenal ulcers may cause transient gastric outlet obstruction, which typically improves with medical therapy.
