Gastrointestinal bleeding refers to any form of bleeding that occurs within the digestive tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. This condition can manifest as either upper gastrointestinal bleeding, originating from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum, or lower gastrointestinal bleeding, coming from the small intestine, large intestine, rectum, or anus. Symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding can vary depending on the source and severity of the bleed, but may include vomiting blood (hematemesis), black or tarry stools (melena), bright red blood in the stool (hematochezia), and abdominal pain or cramping. The causes of gastrointestinal bleeding are diverse. In the upper gastrointestinal tract, common causes include peptic ulcers, gastritis, esophageal varices (enlarged veins in the esophagus), and esophageal or stomach cancer. Lower gastrointestinal bleeding can be attributed to conditions such as diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, colorectal polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and colorectal cancer. Additionally, gastrointestinal bleeding can result from trauma, certain medications (particularly anticoagulants or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and infections.
Treatment for gastrointestinal bleeding depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the bleed. Initial management typically involves stabilizing the patient, which may include fluid resuscitation and blood transfusions if necessary. Endoscopy may be used to diagnose and sometimes treat bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as by cauterizing or clipping bleeding ulcers or varices. For lower gastrointestinal bleeding, treatment may involve colonoscopy to identify and address the source of bleeding. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors for ulcers, antibiotics for infections, or other targeted therapies may also be used. In severe cases, surgery may be required to address significant bleeding or underlying conditions. Timely medical evaluation and intervention are crucial to manage gastrointestinal bleeding effectively and to prevent complications such as significant blood loss or shock.
