Gastrointestinal Bleeding

What is Gastrointestinal Bleeding?

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding refers to any bleeding that occurs along the digestive tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. It is not a disease in itself but a symptom of an underlying condition. GI bleeding can range from mild to life-threatening and may appear suddenly or gradually over time.

Depending on the source, GI bleeding is classified as:

• Upper GI bleeding – from the esophagus, stomach, or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum)
• Lower GI bleeding – from the small intestine (beyond the duodenum), colon, rectum, or anus

Causes of GI Bleeding

Upper GI Causes:

• Peptic ulcers (most common cause)
• Gastritis or inflammation of the stomach lining
• Esophageal varices (enlarged veins due to liver disease)
• Mallory-Weiss tears (tears in the esophagus from vomiting)
• Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)

Lower GI Causes:

• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures
• Diverticulosis
• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Colonic polyps or colorectal cancer
• Angiodysplasia (abnormal blood vessels in the intestine)

Symptoms of GI Bleeding

Symptoms may vary depending on the location and severity of the bleed.

Signs of Upper GI Bleeding:

• Vomiting blood (bright red or coffee ground-like)
• Black, tarry stools (melena)
• Abdominal pain
• Weakness or dizziness

Signs of Lower GI Bleeding:

• Bright red blood in the stool
• Maroon-colored stools
• Cramping or abdominal pain
• Fatigue due to anemia

Severe bleeding can cause low blood pressure, fainting, rapid heartbeat, and even shock, requiring emergency care.

Diagnosis

Your doctor may recommend the following tests to identify the source of bleeding:

• Blood tests – to check for anemia, clotting issues, and infection
• Endoscopy (upper GI) – to view the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
• Colonoscopy – to view the colon and rectum
• Capsule endoscopy – swallowing a camera pill to examine the small intestine
• CT angiography or nuclear scans – for active or intermittent bleeding
• Stool tests – to detect occult (hidden) blood

Treatment

Treatment depends on the location, cause, and severity of the bleeding.

Emergency Care:

• IV fluids and blood transfusions if needed
• Monitoring of vital signs in a hospital setting

Endoscopic Treatment:

• Injection therapy to stop bleeding
• Cauterization (burning) of the bleeding vessel
• Placement of clips or bands (e.g., for varices or ulcers)

Medication:

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for ulcers or gastritis
• Antibiotics for infections like H. pylori
• Medications to lower portal hypertension in variceal bleeding

Surgery or Interventional Radiology:

• Reserved for patients who do not respond to endoscopic therapy
• May include removal of bleeding sections or embolization (blocking the bleeding vessel)

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for GI Bleeding Management?

Aster Hospitals is a trusted center for the management of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, offering expert care through a 24/7 emergency team, experienced gastroenterologists and endoscopists, and advanced diagnostic technology. We ensure prompt endoscopic diagnosis and treatment, with access to minimally invasive interventions and comprehensive critical care support, including an in-house blood bank. Our multidisciplinary approach integrates expertise from surgery, radiology, and intensive care to manage both acute episodes and underlying GI conditions, ensuring long-term health and effective prevention of recurrence.