Referral
REFERRAL
A key concern is that customers may overuse OTC treatments, unwittingly masking the signs of something else that needs further investigation, such as a peptic ulcer or cancer.
The following should be referred to the pharmacist/GP:6
- Customers over 55 who are experiencing: symptoms for the first time; worsening symptoms; persistent symptoms; or symptoms that don't improve with medication.
Symptoms to look out for that need referral include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Stomach pain/signs of indigestion, especially after eating
- Blood in the vomit, or dark blood (like coffee granules) in vomit
- Black stools
- Persistent symptoms for more than 4 weeks
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacteria that can affect the lining of the stomach and duodenum. Customers with recurrent dyspepsia may be considered for H.pylori testing. This may be a carbon-13 urea breath test or stool antigen test.
