Gastric Ulcer: Which Medical Department Should You Visit?

When experiencing symptoms of a gastric ulcer, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist in the internal medicine department. Gastric ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer and can lead to serious complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, both of which can be life-threatening.

Gastrointestinal bleeding may occur when an ulcer erodes into a blood vessel, causing significant internal bleeding. In such cases, patients often first seek care in the emergency room due to sudden and severe symptoms. Similarly, if the ulcer progresses to the point of completely penetrating the stomach wall, it can cause a perforation, leading to acute abdominal pain, muscle tension, tenderness, and rebound tenderness—classic signs of an acute abdomen.

In situations involving perforation, immediate surgical intervention may be necessary, requiring consultation with the emergency surgery department. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further complications and improve outcomes.

Additionally, during endoscopic examination, biopsies are typically taken from the ulcer site to determine whether it is benign or malignant. This step is critical because approximately 1% of gastric ulcers may undergo cancerous changes.

For long-term management of chronic gastric ulcer symptoms and for accurate pathological diagnosis, visiting the gastroenterology department is essential. Gastroenterologists specialize in performing endoscopic evaluations and providing targeted treatments for ulcers. Early consultation with a specialist significantly improves prognosis and helps prevent severe complications.