A sudden, sharp pain in your stomach. Nausea. Vomiting blood. These symptoms can be alarming — and for good reason. Can you die from a bleeding ulcer? Unfortunately, yes, if left untreated. While many stomach ulcers are manageable, a bleeding ulcer is a medical emergency.

This article explains what a bleeding ulcer is, its complications, symptoms, and recovery timeline. We’ll also answer important questions like how long do stomach ulcers last, can a stomach ulcer heal on its own, and when to see a primary doctor in Miami for safe treatment.

What Is a Bleeding Ulcer?

A bleeding ulcer is a type of peptic ulcer — an open sore in the lining of your stomach or upper small intestine — that has eroded deep enough to damage blood vessels. This can cause internal bleeding, which may present as:

• Vomiting blood (which may look like coffee grounds)
• Black or tarry stools
• Bright red blood in stool
• Fatigue or weakness
• Dizziness or fainting

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially alongside severe abdominal pain, it’s critical to seek medical care immediately.

Can You Die from a Bleeding Ulcer?

Yes, you can. While most ulcers are treatable, a bleeding ulcer can lead to serious complications such as:

• Severe blood loss
• Hemorrhagic shock
• Perforation of the stomach wall
• Sepsis or infection

In extreme cases, especially when left untreated, a bleeding ulcer can be fatal. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, approximately 5–10% of all ulcer-related hospitalizations involve bleeding ulcers — with a mortality rate as high as 10% in some populations.

How Long Do Stomach Ulcers Last?

The healing time for ulcers varies depending on their severity and the treatment used. With medication, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), most uncomplicated stomach ulcers can heal in 4 to 8 weeks.

However, if you’re wondering how long do stomach ulcers last when untreated, they can persist for months or even years, increasing the risk of complications like bleeding or perforation.

Can a Stomach Ulcer Heal on Its Own?

In some minor cases, an ulcer might appear to resolve temporarily, but this doesn’t mean it has healed completely. Without treatment, the ulcer often worsens or recurs. So while you may wonder can a stomach ulcer heal on its own, the safest answer is: not reliably. Medical treatment is strongly recommended.

A primary doctor in Miami can evaluate your symptoms, confirm the diagnosis, and begin a course of medication and dietary adjustments to promote healing.

What Causes Bleeding Ulcers?

Several risk factors can lead to ulcer formation and complications:

• Helicobacter pylori infection: A bacteria that weakens the stomach lining
• Chronic NSAID use: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
• Stress ulcer: Physical or emotional stress can increase acid production
• Smoking and alcohol: Both increase stomach acid and delay healing
• Underlying health conditions: Such as liver disease or clotting disorders

If you’ve been under significant stress or taking medications regularly, you may be at risk of developing a stress ulcer or worsening an existing ulcer.

Can Ulcers Cause Diarrhea?

Yes, although not as common, ulcers can cause diarrhea, especially if they irritate the digestive lining or lead to other gastrointestinal issues like bacterial overgrowth or gallbladder dysfunction. Diarrhea is more frequently seen in cases where the ulcer is located in the small intestine (duodenal ulcers).

Can X-ray Detect Stomach Ulcer?

While X-rays can sometimes identify ulcers, especially with a contrast dye (barium swallow), they are not the most accurate tool. Endoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis.

So if you’re wondering can X-ray detect stomach ulcer, the answer is: it might, but an upper endoscopy is more definitive.

How Long Does It Take for an Ulcer to Heal?

With proper treatment, including antibiotics for H. pylori and acid-reducing medication, healing usually occurs within 6 to 8 weeks. Severe or complicated ulcers, like a bleeding ulcer, may require hospitalization and a longer recovery period.

Lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol, avoiding NSAIDs, quitting smoking, and managing stress also support the healing process.

When to See a Primary Doctor in Miami

If you experience symptoms like chronic indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea, black stools, or any signs of internal bleeding, don’t wait. A primary doctor in Miami can:

• Order the right tests (endoscopy, blood work, stool tests)
• Determine if your ulcer is bleeding
• Prescribe antibiotics and PPIs
• Monitor your healing progress
• Refer you to a gastroenterologist if needed

Acting early can prevent complications and reduce your risk of death from a bleeding ulcer.

FAQs: 

1. How do I know if I have a bleeding ulcer?
   Common signs include vomiting blood, black stools, dizziness, or severe abdominal pain. Seek emergency care immediately.
   
2. Can stress alone cause an ulcer?
   Yes, stress can trigger a stress ulcer, especially during illness or trauma. However, most ulcers result from bacterial infection or NSAID use.
   
3. How are bleeding ulcers treated?
   Treatments may include IV fluids, blood transfusions, endoscopy to stop the bleeding, and medication to reduce acid and promote healing.
   
4. Can I prevent stomach ulcers?
   Yes. Avoid long-term NSAID use, manage stress, limit alcohol, stop smoking, and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
   
5. Do I need a referral to see a gastroenterologist? Not always. Start with your primary doctor in Miami, who can determine if a referral is needed based on your symptoms.