What is the most common cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding?

Peptic ulcer disease is the most common cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. This condition encompasses ulcers that develop in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum), primarily due to factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and other gastric irritants. The presence of these ulcers can lead to erosions and subsequent bleeding, which may manifest as hematemesis (vomiting blood) or melena (black, tarry stools) from the upper GI tract.

Peptic ulcers are particularly significant in the emergency setting, as they can present acutely and may lead to severe complications such as perforation or significant blood loss requiring urgent intervention. Although other conditions, such as esophageal varices, gastritis, and malignancies, can also cause upper gastrointestinal bleeding, peptic ulcer disease remains the predominant cause in the general population. Effective diagnosis and management of these ulcers are critical in emergency medicine practice, as timely interventions can prevent further complications and stabilize the patient.