Treatment options for gastric bleeding include hemostatic drugs, endoscopic treatment, and surgical intervention. The causes are mainly related to peptic ulcers, gastric tumors, and drug irritation.
1. Peptic ulcer
Peptic ulcers are a common cause of gastric bleeding, primarily due to Helicobacter pylori infection or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Gastric acid and pepsin erode the gastric mucosa, leading to ulcer formation and bleeding. Treatment involves using proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole to suppress gastric acid secretion, while simultaneously eradicating Helicobacter pylori with antibiotics. Endoscopic hemostasis, such as injection of adrenaline or electrocoagulation, is an effective method for acute bleeding.
2. Stomach tumor
Both benign and malignant tumors can cause gastric bleeding, with gastric cancer being the most serious cause. Tumor growth damages blood vessels in the gastric mucosa, leading to bleeding. Diagnosis requires endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging examinations. Treatment options include surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Early detection of gastric cancer is key to improving cure rates; regular endoscopy is recommended for high-risk individuals.
3. Drug stimulation
Prolonged use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and anticoagulants, may damage the gastric mucosa and increase the risk of bleeding. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, can cause bleeding tendencies by affecting coagulation function. Treatment should involve discontinuing or adjusting these medications, and simultaneously using gastric mucosal protectants such as sucralfate to promote repair. For acute bleeding caused by medications, hemostatic agents such as tranexamic acid are necessary to control the condition.
4. Other reasons
Stress ulcers and ruptured esophageal and gastric varices caused by cirrhosis are also common causes of gastric bleeding. For stress ulcers, the focus of treatment is on eliminating stress factors and using acid-suppressing drugs for prevention. Esophageal and gastric variceal bleeding can be controlled by endoscopic ligation or injection of sclerosing agents, while somatostatin is used to reduce portal vein pressure.
Treatment for gastric bleeding requires a targeted approach based on the specific cause. Timely medical attention is key to effectively controlling the condition, and high-risk individuals should undergo regular gastric examinations to prevent serious complications.