Denis C., 17

Denis is a 17-year-old Form 2 student who lives with his mother and three younger siblings. Their father left home years ago in search of work and never returned. Denis’ mother supports the family by washing clothes for people, earning about 1,500 shillings per month, which is far from sufficient for their needs. The family walks about 30 minutes to collect water from a stream, and they live in a small, two-room mud house without electricity. Denis has been unwell with peptic ulcer disease (PUD), dehydration, and gastroenteritis. According to a community health promoter, he had been sick for five days, initially experiencing constant abdominal pain, weakness, and poor oral intake, all of which progressively worsened. Because of financial difficulties, the family did not seek proper medical attention and instead relied on over-the-counter medications, but his condition did not improve. As his symptoms escalated and dehydration set in, the community health promoter took him to the hospital after informing the family about Helpster Charity. Denis is currently admitted as an inpatient at the hospital for further assessment and treatment.

Denis, a 17-year-old with peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and dehydration, was managed with prompt rehydration using oral rehydration solution or intravenous fluids (depending on severity) to restore fluid and electrolyte balance. For PUD, he was started on acid-suppressing therapy (proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers). If Helicobacter pylori infection was suspected or confirmed, eradication therapy with appropriate antibiotics was given. He was advised to avoid ulcer-aggravating factors such as NSAIDs, spicy foods, caffeine, and smoking, and was supported with a balanced diet once tolerated. Denis showed improvement in hydration status with normalization of vital signs and urine output. Abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms reduced as the ulcer healed. With adherence to medication and lifestyle advice, he achieved symptom relief, reduced risk of complications, and a good overall recovery. Follow-up was arranged to ensure ulcer healing and prevent recurrence.

With timely admission and proper medical care, Denis’ prognosis is good. Peptic ulcer disease, gastroenteritis, and dehydration typically respond well to treatment when managed early with the right medications, rehydration, and nutritional support. As his symptoms stabilize and he resumes adequate fluid and food intake, he is expected to recover fully. After discharge, continued adherence to ulcer medication, improved nutrition, and follow-up visits will help prevent recurrence.