What are the three main presentations of GI bleeding?

Clinical presentations of gastrointestinal bleeding are classified as overt (acute), occult (chronic) or obscure and the corresponding diagnostic algorithms are illustrated through review of the key evidence and consensus guidelines. Upper endoscopy and colonoscopy are the mainstay of initial investigations.

What are the causes of upper GI bleeding?

Potential causes of bleeding in the upper GI tract include:

  • Bleeding peptic ulcers. Peptic, or stomach, ulcers may be due to a Helicobacter pylori infection or overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Varices.
  • Growths.
  • Esophagitis.
  • Injury or tear.
  • Surgery.
  • Diverticulitis.
  • Hemorrhoid.

What is the treatment for upper GI bleeding?

If you have an upper GI bleed, you might be given an IV drug known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to suppress stomach acid production. Once the source of the bleeding is identified, your doctor will determine whether you need to continue taking a PPI .

What is gastrointestinal bleeding signs and symptoms?

What are the symptoms of GI bleeding?

  • black or tarry stool.
  • bright red blood in vomit.
  • cramps in the abdomen.
  • dark or bright red blood mixed with stool.
  • dizziness or faintness.
  • feeling tired.
  • paleness.
  • shortness of breath.

How can you tell the difference between upper and lower GI bleed?

Gastrointestinal bleeding

  • Upper GI bleeding: The upper GI tract includes the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach), stomach, and first part of the small intestine.
  • Lower GI bleeding: The lower GI tract includes much of the small intestine, large intestine or bowels, rectum, and anus.

What is the most common presentation of upper GI bleeding?

Hematemesis and melena are the most common presentations of acute UGIB, and patients may present with both symptoms.

How is upper GI bleeding diagnosed?

An endoscopy procedure may help your doctor see if and where you have GI bleeding and the bleeding’s cause. Doctors most often use upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy to test for acute GI bleeding in the upper and lower GI tracts. Upper GI endoscopy.

Does a GI bleed require surgery?

Treatment for GI bleeding usually includes hospitalization because blood pressure may drop and heart rate may increase and this needs to be stabilized. In some cases, IV fluids or blood transfusions are needed, and surgery may be required.

Can you survive a GI bleed?

Regardless of treatment, 102 patients survived the initial episode of lower GI bleeding by at least two weeks. During the median follow-up of 16 months, 14 patients (14 percent) had clinically significant rebleeding.

How do you diagnose an upper GI bleed?

Doctors most often use upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy to test for acute GI bleeding in the upper and lower GI tracts. Upper GI endoscopy. In an upper GI endoscopy, your doctor feeds an endoscope down your esophagus and into your stomach and duodenum.