Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Symptoms

The symptoms of acute GI bleeding can vary depending on the location and severity of the bleeding. Some common symptoms include:

• Vomiting blood or a dark, gritty material that looks like coffee grounds
• Black, tarry stools
• Bright red blood in the stool
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Weakness or fatigue
• Shortness of breath

Causes

There are many different causes of acute GI bleeding. Some of the most common causes include:

• Peptic ulcers: These are sores that form in the lining of the stomach or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
• Esophagitis: This is inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.
• Gastritis: This is inflammation of the lining of the stomach.
• Diverticulosis: This is a condition in which pouches form in the lining of the colon.
• Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the rectum or anus.
• Anal fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus.
• Mallory-Weiss tears: These are tears in the lining of the esophagus that can be caused by severe vomiting.
• Cancer: Cancer of the esophagus, stomach, colon, or rectum can also cause GI bleeding.

Diagnosis

If you think you may have acute GI bleeding, it is important to see a doctor right away. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and symptoms. They will also perform a physical exam.

The doctor may also order some tests to diagnose the cause of the bleeding. These tests may include:

• Upper endoscopy: This is a procedure that allows the doctor to see the inside of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end.
• Colonoscopy: This is a procedure that allows the doctor to see the inside of your rectum and colon using a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end.
• Stool tests: These tests can be used to check for blood in your stool.
• Barium swallow: This is an X-ray of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The patient drinks a liquid that coats the lining of these organs, which makes them show up more clearly on the X-ray.

Treatment

The treatment for acute GI bleeding will depend on the cause and severity of the bleeding. Some common treatments include:

• Medications: There are a number of medications that can be used to treat GI bleeding. These medications can help to stop the bleeding, reduce stomach acid, or protect the lining of the stomach.
• Endoscopy: In some cases, an endoscope can be used to treat GI bleeding. The doctor can insert the endoscope into the digestive tract and use it to inject medication or clip off a bleeding vessel.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to stop the bleeding.
• Minimally Invasive Procedure: Visceral (Mesenteric) arterial embolisation can be performed to treat this condition without surgery (Click here to read more on Mesenteric arterial embolization for acute bleeding from gastrointestinal tract).

Prevention

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent acute GI bleeding. These include:

• Taking medications as prescribed by your doctor.
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt and fat.
• Managing stress.
• Getting regular checkups with your doctor.