GI Bleeding

GI bleeding refers to any form of bleeding that originates from the digestive tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. It can range from mild to life-threatening and may be visible or hidden (occult).

Symptoms of GI Bleeding

The symptoms can vary depending on the location (upper vs. lower GI tract), severity, and cause of the bleeding.

Common Symptoms:

• Visible blood in vomit (hematemesis)

• Black, tarry stools (melena – typically upper GI source)

• Bright red or maroon-colored stool (hematochezia – usually lower GI source)

• Fatigue or weakness

• Dizziness or fainting

• Pale skin or shortness of breath

• Abdominal pain or cramping

• Shock (in severe bleeding – rapid pulse, low blood pressure)

Silent or Occult Bleeding:

• Detected only through tests (e.g., iron-deficiency anemia, fecal occult blood test)

• Common in slow, chronic GI bleeding

Course of Evaluation and Treatment

1. Initial Assessment:

   • Medical history and physical exam

   • Vital signs to assess severity (e.g., signs of shock)

   • Blood tests: CBC, clotting factors, liver function, etc.

   • IV fluids or blood transfusions for severe cases

2. Diagnostic Procedures:

Depending on the suspected source of bleeding:

• Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD) – to identify bleeding from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum

• Colonoscopy – for lower GI sources

• Capsule endoscopy or enteroscopy – for small bowel bleeding

• CT angiography or tagged red blood cell scan – for active or unclear bleeding

• Nasogastric tube lavage – may be used to assess upper GI bleeding

3. Treatment:

   • Endoscopic therapy:

     • Injection of medications

     • Thermal coagulation

     • Clipping of bleeding vessels

   • Medications:

     • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

     • Antibiotics (if related to infection or cirrhosis)

     • Vasoconstrictors (in cases like variceal bleeding)

   • Surgery or interventional radiology if bleeding cannot be controlled endoscopically

   • Management of underlying causes (ulcers, varices, diverticulosis, cancer, etc.)

Recovery

The recovery period depends on the cause and severity of the bleed:

• Mild cases (e.g., small ulcers or hemorrhoids): recovery may be rapid with medication and rest.

• Moderate to severe cases (e.g., variceal bleeding, bleeding tumors): may require hospitalization, intensive care, and long-term follow-up.

Post-Treatment Monitoring Includes:

• Repeat blood tests to monitor hemoglobin levels

• Monitoring for signs of re-bleeding

• Assessment for the need of further procedures will be done by a Gastroenterologist in Wadegaon Sheri to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.