Bleeding in thedigestive systemisn’t a condition by itself but rather a sign of a disorder.
Depending on the cause, an upper GI bleed can be serious.
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What Is an Upper GI Bleed?
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A GI bleed can be characterized as acute or chronic.
Acute means that it starts suddenly and can be severe.
Upper GI bleeds are more common in men than they are in women.
Upper GI Bleed Symptoms
Symptoms may not be noted for some causes of an upper GI bleed.
Significant amounts of blood should be evaluated right away in a hospital emergency department.
They vary in severity and treatment.
This includesaspirin, Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen), and Aleve (naproxen).
A peptic ulcer may cause symptoms of:
Esophagitis
Esophagitisis an inflammation in theesophagus.
Esophagitis may cause symptoms such as:
Enteritis
Enteritis is when the small intestine is inflamed.
It is usually brought on by forceful vomiting, retching, or hiccuping.
In this situation, there may be a need for treatment in the hospital and/or a blood transfusion.
Esophageal Varices
Esophageal varicesare swollen veins in the lower part of the esophagus.
If one of these veins breaks open, it can cause bleeding that may be life-threatening.
Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining.
The most common cause is anH.
Gastritis may come on suddenly or become chronic.
Gastritis might not cause any symptoms.
These types of tumors could be benign (noncancerous) or they could be malignant (cancerous).
In some cases they might not cause any symptoms and are found when there is testing for another reason.
Some types of cancer in the upper digestive system are related to the use of alcohol and tobacco.
How Is an Upper GI Bleed Diagnosed?
Various tests may be used to find the source of bleeding in the digestive tract.
A healthcare provider will start by asking questions about symptoms and family history.
A physical exam will also be used to understand more about what could be causing symptoms.
It may not be possible to prevent all possible causes of upper GI bleeding.
The bleeding and its underlying condition may be easily treatable or life-threatening.
Any sign or symptom of upper GI bleeding is a reason to contact a healthcare provider.
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