Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a significant medical condition that affects thousands of people each year. According to a study, the incidence of major bleeding ranges from 3% to 16% in India. Don't let GI bleeding catch you off guard! This blog is here to equip you with the knowledge to spot the signs, understand the causes, and get the help you need – fast.
What is GI Bleeding?
GI bleeding is any form of bleeding that occurs within the gastrointestinal tract, which extends from the mouth to the anus. The bleeding can be categorised into two main types:
- Upper GI Bleeding: This occurs in the upper part of the digestive system, consisting of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
- Lower GI Bleeding: This type affects the lower part of the digestive system, including the small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus.
Common Causes of GI Bleeding
Several conditions can lead to GI bleeding, with some being more prevalent than others:
- Peptic Ulcers: Sores that form on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or oesophagus, usually due to infection with Helicobacter pylori or long-term use of NSAIDs.
- Diverticulosis: Small pouches in the colon can become inflamed or infected, leading to bleeding.
- Angiodysplasia: Abnormal blood vessels in the GI tract can rupture and cause bleeding.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are common causes of chronic inflammation and bleeding.
- Haemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus can bleed, particularly during bowel movements.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux can damage the lining of the oesophagus, leading to bleeding.
Symptoms of GI Bleeding
Recognising the symptoms of GI bleeding is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms differ depending on the severity and location of the bleeding:
General Symptoms:
- Visible Blood: Blood in vomit (haematemesis) or stool (melena or haematochezia) is a clear indicator of GI bleeding (Black tarry stools (melena) is a sign of upper GI bleeding - with the blood becoming black as it passes down the GI tract).
- Unexplained Anemia: Chronic blood loss can lead to anaemia, characterised by fatigue, weakness, and pallor.
- Abdominal Pain: This may be associated with bleeding ulcers or other GI conditions.
- Dizziness and Fainting: Significant blood loss can cause these symptoms due to decreased blood volume.
Symptoms Based on Bleeding Location:
- Upper GI Bleeding Symptoms: Vomiting blood and black tarry stools (melena) are typical.
- Lower GI Bleeding Symptoms: Bright red blood in stool (haematochezia) or maroon-coloured stools may occur.
Diagnosis of GI Bleeding
Proper diagnosis of GI bleeding involves a thorough assessment:
Initial Assessment:
- Medical History and Physical Exam: A meticulous history and physical examination are critical for identifying potential sources of bleeding.
- Lab Tests: Blood tests can detect anaemia and other abnormalities related to blood loss.
Diagnostic Procedures:
- Endoscopy: Both upper and lower endoscopies allow direct visualisation of the GI tract to identify bleeding sites.
- Imaging Studies: CT scans, angiography, and other imaging techniques can locate bleeding sources.
- Capsule Endoscopy: A small, swallowable camera can help detect bleeding in the small intestine.
When to Seek Medical Help
Knowing when to seek medical help is critical for managing GI bleeding:
Warning Signs: Seek prompt medical attention if you experience large amounts of blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or signs of shock (e.g., rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, confusion).
Urgent vs. Non-Urgent Symptoms: While severe symptoms require emergency care, less severe symptoms (e.g., mild abdominal pain and little amounts of blood in stool) should still prompt a visit to a doctor, albeit not as urgently.
Final Words
GI bleeding is a serious condition with a variety of causes and symptoms. Recognising the signs early and seeking timely medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes. If you or someone you know experiences symptoms of GI bleeding, consult a healthcare provider promptly. Sharing this knowledge can also help raise awareness regarding the importance of early detection, prevention and possible treatment.
Prevent Complications with Expert Care at Gut Clinic & Endoscopy Centre
Are you experiencing any worrying symptoms, such as blood in your vomit or stool, unexplained fatigue, or severe abdominal pain? These could be signs of GI bleeding requiring immediate medical attention. Don’t wait and wonder—consult with Dr Ajay Kumar or Dr Piyush Vishwakarma at Gut Clinic and Endoscopy Centre. We will provide a thorough diagnosis and effective treatment to address the issue promptly. Early intervention is crucial in managing GI bleeding and preventing further complications.
