Margaret Wairimu N., 14

Margret is a 14-year-old girl who has lived at Jeho Children’s Home in Pipeline, Nairobi, for five years. She became orphaned after the death of her only guardian under tragic circumstances in Mukuru. The home, which relies entirely on well-wishers for food, shelter, education and healthcare, has since provided her with a safe and supportive environment. Margret enjoys playing chess and dreams of becoming a doctor. Margret had been well until three days before seeking care, when she developed persistent burning abdominal pain, particularly after meals and at night. She later developed nausea and hematemesis (vomiting blood), raising concern for significant upper gastrointestinal bleeding. A volunteer nurse at the home suspected a severe gastric ulcer and advised urgent hospital evaluation. Margret was taken to hospital, where clinical assessment and investigations confirmed Helicobacter pylori infection and peptic ulcer disease, with a history of recurrent ulcers. Given the bleeding and recurrent symptoms, prompt treatment was initiated to control the condition and prevent further complications.

Margret was diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori infection and peptic ulcer disease after presenting with persistent burning abdominal pain, nausea and hematemesis. Vomiting blood is a concerning sign of gastrointestinal bleeding and warranted prompt medical assessment and treatment. Untreated PUD may lead to significant bleeding, anaemia, perforation or recurrence. With appropriate H. pylori eradication therapy, acid suppression, adherence to treatment and follow-up, Margret’s prognosis is favourable, however she has to be counseled on aggravating factors so that she may avoid them.