10 things about gastrointestinal bleeding: Its causes, symptoms, investigations and management
Gastrointestinal bleeding arises from upper or lower tract causes such as peptic ulcers, esophageal varices, or erosive gastritis. Symptoms include vomiting blood, melena, hematochezia, dizziness, pallor, and shock. Diagnosis involves blood tests. Management includes fluids, transfusions, and pharmacotherapy.
Definition of GI Bleeding Blood loss from the digestive tract is known as gastrointestinal bleeding. It can occur due to multiple etiological factors, and must not be ignored, as it can point to some underlying condition. It can either be because of bleeding from the upper or the lower gastrointestinal tract.(Image: Canva)
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Peptic Ulcers as Cause One of the most common causes of upper gastrointestinal tract is peptic ulcers. Peptic ulcers are sores that may develop on the oesophagus, stomach or small intestine. These are usually caused by a pathogen known as Helicobacter pylori. Long term use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs.(Image: Canva)
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Esophageal Varices Explanation Esophageal varices, like those that occur due to portal hypertension, are abnormal veins that can develop when blood flow to the liver is blocked. Since the blood cannot pass through these abnormal vessels, it passes through smaller ones. These small vessels cannot carry large amounts of blood, and may leak or burst.(Image: Canva)
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Erosive Gastritis Cause Inflammation of the stomach lining leads to a condition called erosive gastritis. It may occur because of drugs like NSAIDS or alcohol. Increased stress levels may also cause gastritis, and must be managed before conditions worsen. Meditative practices may aid in reducing stress levels.(Image: Canva)
Symptoms of Presentation An affected person may present with vomiting of blood, or coffee-ground material. In some other cases, melena may be observed, which is the passage of black coloured, tarry stools. The colour of vomitus can depend on the time the blood has been in the stomach.(Image: Canva)
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Hematochezia and Shock Severe or massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding can cause maroon or bright-red stools, that is seen as a passage of frank blood in the stools. This is known as hematochezia. Other symptoms may include dizziness, extreme pallor and shock. Anaemic signs may be seen as well.(Image: Canva)
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Other Associated Symptoms Associated symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding include nausea, retching and abdominal discomfort. An acidic reaction is seen, and the affected individual may also experience orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure due to standing). Abdominal tenderness is also a sign commonly elicited.(Image: Canva)
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Investigations Recommended The healthcare provider may advise a number of investigations, like a complete blood count, which may tell us about the status of anemia (by the haemoglobin levels). Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels can also be raised in this condition. Liver function tests are also recommended.(Image: Canva)
Treatment in Bleeding In case of massive bleeding, resuscitation is done with intravenous fluids. Blood transfusions may be needed in cases where there is a large amount of blood loss. Haemoglobin levels below 7 gm/dl often warrant blood transfusion. Pre-endoscopic pharmacotherapy may be given.(Image: Canva)
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Managing Underlying Cause It is important to manage the blood loss before it can cause deleterious effects like shock. The underlying cause must be timely identified and treated, before it causes massive bleeding. Conditions like stress ulcers may be managed with physical exercise and meditation, whereas others may require medical intervention.(Image: Canva) Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
