Since 2021, aggregated from related topics
Stress ulcer prophylaxis is a medical treatment aimed at preventing ulcers in patients who are critically ill or have experienced a traumatic event. These ulcers, also known as stress ulcers or stress-related mucosal damage, can develop in the stomach or intestines as a result of increased physiological stress or decreased blood flow. Common methods of stress ulcer prophylaxis include the use of medications such as proton pump inhibitors or histamine-2 receptor antagonists, which help reduce acid production in the stomach. Other approaches may involve nutritional support, early enteral nutrition, or the use of antacids to protect the stomach lining. The goal of stress ulcer prophylaxis is to prevent the development of ulcers in vulnerable patients, as these ulcers can lead to serious complications such as bleeding, perforation, or infection. Overall, stress ulcer prophylaxis is an important aspect of critical care management to improve patient outcomes and prevent further complications.