Age is an independent risk factor
for mortality in UGIB, with Helicobacter pylori infection
and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents and
anticoagulants being the most prevalent causal risk factors.
These patients require early risk assessment, resuscitation
and an attempt to identify and treat the bleeding source.
In the majority, this involves early endoscopy and endotherapy
as required to achieve haemostasis, with radiological
intervention or surgery needed in the minority with
ongoing severe bleeding. In this article, we discuss UGIB
in the elderly, focusing on aetiology, risk factors and
management