Transcript Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
• Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding refers to any
bleeding that starts in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Bleeding may come from any site along the GI
tract, but is often divided into:
• 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.
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
• GI bleeding may be a sign of more serious diseases and
conditions, such as the following cancers of the GI tract:
• Cancer of the colon
• Cancer of the small intestine
• Cancer of the stomach
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Other possible causes of GI bleeding include:
Abnormal blood vessels in the lining of the intestines
Ulcerative colitis
Esophageal varices
Esophagitis
Gastric (stomach) ulcer
Radiation injury to the bowel
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
• Diagnosis
• The diagnosis of upper GI bleeding is assumed
when hematemesis is documented. In the
absence of hematemesis, an upper source for
GI bleeding is likely in the presence of the
factors: black stool.
• Gastroccult test positive
• Endoscopic image of small gastric ulcer with
visible vessel
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Treatment
• Stop bleeding
1. Fluids and medicines through a vein
2. Endoscopic banding
3. Surgery
• Blood transfusions
• Treat primary disease
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding includes:
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Stop smoking.
Avoid exposure to secondary smoke.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid caffeine.
Avoid aspirin.
Avoid heavy or regular use of medications: