An 85-year-old woman in Hanoi was admitted to E Hospital in critical condition due to septic shock and severe toxicity caused by a perforated peptic ulcer, a complication of prolonged use of painkillers.
The patient had multiple underlying health conditions, including cardiovascular, respiratory, and musculoskeletal issues, as well as spinal disc herniation, which exacerbated her fragile state. According to her medical history, she suffered from chronic lower back pain and self-medicated with painkillers that led to the gastric perforation.
Her advanced age and preexisting health conditions masked the symptoms of the perforation for four days. Despite worsening pain, she continued taking painkillers until her condition escalated, resulting in severe abdominal swelling and septic shock, prompting her admission to the hospital.
A CT scan revealed peritonitis caused by a perforation at the anterior duodenal bulb and gastric pylorus. Dr. Nguyen Khac Diep, from the gastrointestinal surgery department, described the case as life-threatening due to severe abdominal infection. Emergency surgery was performed to repair the perforation. During the procedure, surgeons found significant pus and fibrous deposits caused by the 2cm perforation.
Post-surgery, the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit for monitoring and treatment of septic shock and severe peritonitis. She has since stabilized and is expected to recover and be discharged in the coming days.
Dr. Diep emphasized the importance of seeking medical consultation for gastrointestinal symptoms and avoiding self-medication, particularly in elderly individuals with multiple underlying conditions. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial in preventing life-threatening complications.
