Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding refers to any bleeding that occurs in the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. GI bleeding can be a symptom of various underlying conditions and can range from mild to severe. At Digestive System Healthcare, our specialists are experienced in diagnosing and treating GI bleeding to ensure prompt and effective care. If you suspect you have gastrointestinal bleeding, contact us to schedule a consultation.
What causes Gastrointestinal Bleeding?
Gastrointestinal bleeding can result from numerous conditions, including:
- Peptic ulcers: Sores in the stomach or duodenum caused by H. pylori infection or NSAID use.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often due to infection, alcohol use, or NSAIDs.
- Diverticulosis: Small pouches in the colon that can bleed.
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can cause bleeding.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis that cause chronic inflammation of the GI tract.
- Esophageal varices: Enlarged veins in the esophagus that can bleed, often associated with liver disease.
- Colorectal cancer: Tumors in the colon or rectum that can cause bleeding.
- Angiodysplasia: Abnormal blood vessels in the GI tract that can lead to bleeding.
What are common symptoms of Gastrointestinal Bleeding?
The symptoms of GI bleeding depend on the location and severity of the bleed, and may include:
- Vomiting blood: Which may appear bright red or like coffee grounds.
- Black, tarry stools: Known as melena, indicating bleeding in the upper GI tract.
- Rectal bleeding: Bright red blood in the stool or on toilet paper, often from the lower GI tract.
- Abdominal pain: Depending on the cause of the bleeding.
- Fatigue and weakness: Due to blood loss and anemia.
- Paleness: Resulting from significant blood loss.
- Dizziness or fainting: Caused by low blood pressure from blood loss.
How is Gastrointestinal Bleeding diagnosed?
Diagnosing GI bleeding typically involves:
- Medical history and physical exam: Your doctor will discuss your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination.
- Blood tests: To check for anemia and other signs of blood loss.
- Endoscopy: A procedure using a flexible tube with a camera to view the upper or lower GI tract and identify the source of bleeding.
- Colonoscopy: An examination of the colon using a flexible tube with a camera.
- Imaging tests: Such as CT scans, to detect bleeding sources not visible with endoscopy.
- Capsule endoscopy: Swallowing a small, pill-sized camera to take pictures of the small intestine.
What are the treatment options for Gastrointestinal Bleeding?
Treatment for GI bleeding aims to stop the bleeding, treat the underlying cause, and prevent recurrence. Options include:
Medications:
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid production to treat bleeding ulcers.
- Antibiotics: Treat H. pylori infection if present.
- Vasoactive drugs: Used to constrict blood vessels and control bleeding in cases like esophageal varices.
Procedures:
- Endoscopic therapy: Techniques like clipping, cauterizing, or injecting medications to stop bleeding during endoscopy.
- Angiography: A radiologic procedure to locate and treat bleeding vessels.
- Surgery: In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, surgery may be needed to repair or remove the bleeding source.
Blood transfusions: To replace lost blood and treat anemia if necessary.