On 3/1, a representative from Dong Trieu General Hospital stated that the patient was out of critical condition after emergency surgery. Previously, the patient experienced joint pain but did not seek medical attention, instead going to an unknown facility to receive injections of various drugs.

Upon returning home, the elderly man experienced severe abdominal pain radiating to his chest, vomiting, and high fever. Instead of going to the hospital immediately, he continued to take more painkillers at home. Only when the pain became unbearable and his body weakened did his family take him to the emergency room.

The treating doctor with the patient. *Photo: Hospital provided*

Doctors diagnosed the patient with a perforated stomach, leading to severe septic shock. The surgical team performed surgery to suture the hollow organ perforation, aspirating and irrigating the abdominal cavity to remove contaminated fluid and prevent the spread of infection. Currently, the patient's health is gradually stabilizing and he is under postoperative observation.

Doctor Nguyen The Phuong, Head of the Surgery Department, identified the direct cause of this complication as the misuse of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs without a prescription. Self-administering multiple drugs of unknown origin further increases the risk of damage to the gastrointestinal lining, causing inflammation, ulcers, and perforation of the stomach and duodenum.

A perforated stomach is a dangerous surgical emergency, typically presenting with sudden, knife-like abdominal pain, a rigid abdomen, and inability to pass gas or stool. The pain may radiate to the shoulder due to digestive fluids irritating the diaphragm, accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever, sweating, and rapid pulse. Delayed intervention can lead to peritonitis and septic shock, directly threatening the patient's life.

Besides improper medication use, this condition can also result from chronic peptic ulcers caused by HP bacteria, prolonged stress, an unscientific diet, or alcohol abuse.

Doctors advise against self-medicating at home, especially for chronic joint conditions requiring long-term painkiller use. When experiencing unusual abdominal pain, patients should immediately visit a specialized medical facility for accurate diagnosis to avoid unforeseen complications.

Thuy Quynh