What Is Gastrointestinal Bleeding?
More specifically, the gastrointestinal tract is divided into the upper gastrointestinal tract and the lower gastrointestinal tract.
The upper gastrointestinal tract is the section between the mouth and the outflow tract of the stomach.
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Gastrointestinal bleeding ranges from microscopic amounts of blood to massive bleeding.
The amount of bleeding and the location of bleeding determine what needs to be done to stop the bleeding.
There are numerous conditions that can cause gastrointestinal bleeding.
GI bleeding also can be associated with aspirin use as well as blood thinners.
Hematochezia is seen in 80% of all gastrointestinal bleeding.
Melena is present in 70% of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and 33% of lower gastrointestinal bleeding.
So, by the time you see black stools, there already has been significant bleeding.
Why Is It Important to Not Ignore Signs of Bleeding?
Their family members who live with them must also be taught about the warning signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Do the right thingdon’t ignore your symptoms.
Your life may depend on it.
Read more about theeffects of medicine on the stomach.
The American College of Gastroenterology.
Scott Moses, MD.
