Ian S., 14

Ian is a 14-year-old boy and an orphan living at a Children’s Home in Pipeline. He enjoys playing football and listening to music in his free time. The home relies entirely on well-wishers for food and daily needs. Ian was taken into the Children’s Home at the age of 10 after being rescued from the streets by city police, and attempts to trace his family have been unsuccessful. He is a cheerful boy who dreams of becoming an engineer one day. The home was introduced to Helpster Charity through a visit by Rheemah medical practitioners and later by Vincent, a Helpster volunteer. Recently, Ian developed persistent symptoms including vomiting, ongoing nausea, severe heartburn, constant hiccups and burping, chest discomfort, and epigastric pain. His appetite significantly reduced, sometimes eating very little or nothing at all. Teachers became concerned because he often struggled to concentrate in class, prompting the school to inform the children’s home. Sarah, a volunteer, brought him to Rheemah Hospital for evaluation. After thorough examination and relevant tests, the medical officer diagnosed Ian with Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) and Acid Reflux.

Ian had been experiencing persistent vomiting, ongoing nausea, recurrent heartburn, intractable hiccups with frequent burping, chest pain, and epigastric pain. His appetite had significantly reduced, and at times he was not eating at all. Teachers became concerned after noticing that he occasionally struggled to concentrate in class compared to other students. The school administration informed the children’s home, prompting further action. Sarah, a volunteer, facilitated his referral to Rheemah Hospital for medical evaluation. He was reviewed by the Medical Officer in charge, and following thorough examination and relevant investigations, he was diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and acid reflux. He was prescribed Nexium 40 mg, Gaviscon Double Action, and Tramacetal 375 mg (Tramadol 37.5 mg). Three days after the hospital visit, a follow-up report from the volunteer confirmed that Ian was responding well to treatment.

With timely diagnosis and proper medical management, Ian’s prognosis for Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) and Acid Reflux is generally good. Most children respond well to treatment once the underlying causes are addressed. With adherence to prescribed medications, diet modification, and regular follow-up, his symptoms should gradually improve, allowing him to regain his appetite, energy levels, and ability to concentrate in school. Early intervention also reduces the risk of complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or chronic recurrence.