PROCEDURES
Treatment of GI bleeding
Gastrointestinal bleeding indicates an underlying disorder affecting the digestive tract. Blood may be present in vomit or faecal matter, signifying gastrointestinal bleeding. Endoscopic procedures are commonly used to determine the source of bleeding and to provide therapeutic intervention.
What are the signs?
The symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding vary according to the severity and anatomical location of the bleeding.
Severe gastrointestinal bleeding may present with the following manifestations:
- The presence of blood in vomit, which may appear similar to coffee grounds
- Black, tar-like stool
- Visible blood in the stool
Some forms of bleeding may not be inherently obvious to the patient and may present only with anaemia (low blood count) or iron deficiency. Not all causes of bleeding are obvious to the patient.
What are the causes?
Gastrointestinal bleeding can originate from either the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract and may result from the following conditions:
Common causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding include:
- Peptic ulcers are exposed sores that form on the inner lining of the stomach.
- Gastritis
- Abnormal tumours or growths
- Oesophageal varices
- Inflammation of the oesophagus
- Presence of a hiatal hernia
- Abnormal growths in the upper digestive tract
Lower gastrointestinal bleeding may arise due to the following:
- Diverticular disease is characterised by the formation of small pouches in the digestive tract that may become inflamed or infected
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Tumours located in the oesophagus, stomach, or cancer of the colon or rectum.
- The presence of colon polyps
- Haemorrhoids, which are enlarged veins in the lower rectum and anus
- Anal fissures are tears in the tissue lining of the anus.
- Angiodysplasia
How do you treat gastrointestinal bleeding?
Treatment strategies are determined by the location and underlying cause of the bleeding. In certain cases, bleeding may be managed with pharmacological therapy or endoscopic procedures performed during diagnostic evaluation. For example, a bleeding peptic ulcer can be treated during upper endoscopy, while polyp removal may be performed during colonoscopy.
If you suspect gastrointestinal bleeding, promptly contact the medical practice to schedule an appointment.
Book a consultation today and don’t delay with treatment.
FAQ:
1. How can I determine if gastrointestinal bleeding is serious?
Serious signs include lethargy, confusion, the presence of blood in the stool, or black, tarry stools.
2. Is gastrointestinal bleeding dangerous?
Yes, gastrointestinal bleeding is a serious condition, and it is important not to delay treatment.
3. Is gastrointestinal bleeding curable?
Yes, treatment is possible; however, prompt medical care is essential to prevent complications.
