Mallory Weiss Syndrome - VnExpress Health

Mallory Weiss syndrome is characterized by acute gastrointestinal bleeding due to a mucosal tear in the esophagus or near the stomach or a combination of both due to a sudden and sharp increase in abdominal pressure.

The article was professionally consulted by Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuan, Head of the Department of Digestive Surgery, 108 Central Military Hospital.

Characteristic

- Mallory Weiss syndrome accounts for about 8-15% of cases of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

- In most cases, bleeding stops on its own.

- Severe bleeding can occur in about 10% of patients with this syndrome.

Reason

- The main causes are:

* Vomiting.

* Cough.

* Convulsion.

* Abdominal trauma.

* Stress.

* Difficulty defecating.

* Cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

- Risk factors that contribute to this condition:

* Drink alcohol.

* Hiatal hernia.

* Uncontrolled overeating.

* Bedwetting.

* Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Among them, alcohol consumption is considered one of the most important risk factors. Approximately 50-70% of patients with Mallory Weiss syndrome have a history of alcohol consumption.

Symptom

- Vomiting blood.

- Black stools like coffee grounds.

- Some other symptoms such as paleness, dizziness, fatigue, abdominal pain, chest pain, sweating, low blood pressure...

Diagnosis and treatment

- EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy - Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy) has a definitive diagnostic role, thereby providing treatment intervention.

- Unsuccessful EGD treatment may require vascular intervention.

- If vascular intervention is unsuccessful, surgery may be performed.

Preventive

- Eat scientifically , prioritizing a diet rich in fiber and vitamins.

- Limit alcohol and fast food (fried chicken, frozen meat...).

- Limit spicy, hot, sour, salty foods that are harmful to the stomach, intestines or foods that irritate the stomach.