Gastrointestinal Bleeding: It is the most common complication observed in PUD. It is more common in people over 60 yrs of age. Increased use of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in elderly may indicate higher incidence. It occurs in around 15% patients of Peptic Ulcer. 20% of patients with ulcer-related hemorrhage bleed without any preceding warning signs or symptoms.
Perforation: It is second most common complication of Peptic Ulcer. Around 6 to 7% of people suffering from peptic ulcers get this complication. This is also more common in elderly patients, likely due to increased use of NSAIDs.
Gastric Outlet Obstruction: It is a rare complication which is seen in 1 to 2% of patients. A patient may have relative obstruction secondary to ulcer-related inflammation and edema in the peri-pyloric region. This process often resolves with ulcer healing. Signs and symptoms relative to mechanical obstruction may develop insidiously.
Scar tissue formation: Persistent inflammation and edema may lead to scar tissue formation. This can cause fixed, mechanical obstruction in pyloric area.
Penetration: Penetration is form of perforation. In this, ulcer bed tunnels into an adjacent organ. Gastric ulcer tends to penetrate in liver. Duodenal ulcer tends to penetrate in pancreas, leading to pancreatitis.
