How to prepare for a video visit about Peptic Ulcer (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: adult

If you think you might have a peptic ulcer, preparing for your video visit can help you get the most from your telemedicine appointment. Peptic ulcers are sores that develop on the lining of your stomach or the upper part of your small intestine. They often cause stomach pain, indigestion, or nausea. During your video visit, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any medicines you take. They may suggest tests or treatments based on what you share. Remember, this visit is for education and triage only, not a diagnosis. If your symptoms are severe or you notice warning signs like vomiting blood or sudden sharp pain, seek emergency care immediately. Preparing notes about your symptoms and questions can help you communicate clearly. Telemedicine can often help guide you on next steps, but some situations require in-person evaluation or emergency care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds — seek emergency care immediately.
• Black, tarry, or bloody stools — contact emergency services or go to the hospital.
• Sudden, severe abdominal pain or fainting — get urgent medical attention without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Review of symptoms and medical history related to suspected peptic ulcer.
• Providing education about peptic ulcers and possible causes.
• Guidance on lifestyle changes and medication options.
• Triage to determine if urgent in-person care or testing is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or diagnostic procedures like endoscopy.
• Administering emergency treatment for bleeding or perforated ulcers.
• Prescribing controlled substances without in-person evaluation.
• Managing severe complications requiring hospital care.

What is a Peptic Ulcer?

A peptic ulcer is a sore that forms on the inside lining of your stomach or the first part of your small intestine. It can cause pain, burning, or discomfort in your upper belly. Ulcers often happen because of infection with a bacteria called *Helicobacter pylori* or from long-term use of certain pain medicines.

Common Symptoms to Share During Your Visit

Tell your healthcare provider about any stomach pain, especially if it comes and goes or gets worse when your stomach is empty. Mention if you have nausea, vomiting, bloating, or if you notice dark or bloody stools. Also, share if you have lost weight without trying or feel very tired.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

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What to Expect During the Video Visit

Your provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may guide you on whether you need tests like blood work or an endoscopy. They can also advise you on lifestyle changes or medicines to try. If your situation is urgent, they will recommend in-person care.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you experience sudden, severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, or feel faint or very weak, seek emergency care right away. These signs may mean serious complications that need immediate treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and how they affect you.
• List all medications, supplements, and allergies.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place with a stable internet connection for your video visit.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions or prescriptions given by your healthcare provider.
• Schedule recommended tests or follow-up appointments as advised.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new warning signs.
• Seek immediate care if red-flag symptoms appear after your visit.
• Maintain recommended lifestyle changes such as diet adjustments and avoiding irritants.

FAQs

Can a video visit diagnose a peptic ulcer?

A video visit can help your healthcare provider understand your symptoms and decide if further tests are needed, but it cannot confirm a peptic ulcer diagnosis. Diagnosis often requires tests like endoscopy or lab work.

What should I do if I have severe stomach pain before my video visit?

If your stomach pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by vomiting blood or black stools, seek emergency medical care immediately. These symptoms could indicate a serious complication.

Are there lifestyle changes that can help with peptic ulcers?

Yes. Avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, reducing stress, and avoiding foods that irritate your stomach can help. Your provider can give specific advice based on your situation.

Will I need tests after my video visit?

Your provider may recommend tests such as blood tests, breath tests for *H. pylori*, or an endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Can I get treatment for a peptic ulcer through telemedicine?

Telemedicine can often start the process by advising on medications and lifestyle changes, but some treatments or tests may require in-person visits.

Sources

1. Peptic Ulcer Disease — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Peptic Ulcer — Mayo Clinic.
3. Peptic Ulcer Disease — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Peptic Ulcer Disease — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by a healthcare professional. If you have urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical care.