Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Gastrointestinal bleeding is when bleeding occurs in the digestive tract. It is also called GI bleeding. Bleeding can be anywhere from the mouth to the anus. The anus is the opening where stool leaves the body. GI bleeding is most often a sign of some other health problem. It is often hard to find the cause. When it happens in the upper digestive tract it is called upper GI bleeding. The stool can be very dark, almost black in color, and tarry. When it is in the lower digestive tract it is called lower GI bleeding. The stool is most often red in color. There may be very little blood or a lot of blood. GI bleeding may be very serious. You may need to have a colonoscopy, endoscopy, or surgery to stop the bleeding.

Help with pain,Fight an infection,Control your blood pressure,Treat or prevent nausea,Prevent repeat bleeding once it stops,Help to build up your blood count,Lower stomach acid

Low red cell count,Low blood pressure,You may need a blood transfusion

Emergency Medicine,Gastrointestinal

Bleeding,Bleeding, Gastrointestinal,Bleeding, GI,Digestive Tract Bleeding,Gastrointestinal Bleed,GI Bleed,GI Bleeding,GIB,Lower GI Bleeding,Stomach Bleeding,Upper GI Bleeding

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.

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