Gastrointestinal Bleeding: 3 Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Gastrointestinal Bleeding: 3 Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

What Is Gastrointestinal Bleeding?

Any food or liquid consumed must go through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract starts from the esophagus and ends at the anus. Between these are the stomach, large and small intestines, and rectum. Each part plays a role in breaking down, using, and excreting consumed substances. Gastrointestinal bleeding occurs when any part of the tract begins to bleed. In many cases, bleeding is often a sign of a problem in the digestive tract. There are several symptoms of GI bleeding, but these 3 should be taken seriously and prompt a visit to the doctor.

1. Are you vomiting blood?

Bleeding can happen in the upper or lower GI tract. Vomiting is a common symptom of an issue in the upper GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and part of the small intestine. While there are many reasons for vomiting, if there is blood in the gastric contents, this could be a sign of upper GI bleeding. The blood can look bright red or like black coffee grounds. Causes of upper GI bleeding include stomach ulcers, gastritis, and esophageal varices. In some cases, the esophageal lining may be damaged, or this could be an initial sign of cancer. Blood in the mouth or contents when vomiting should be considered a medical emergency.

2. Watch out for black, tarry stools

Sometimes, upper GI bleeding can present symptoms not in vomiting but in waste products. For instance, stools that appear black and sticky and have a concerning smell are a sign of upper GI issues. This symptom is called melena and is often a sign of bleeding in the stomach or small intestine. The blood combines with digestive liquids and is present in feces. The same conditions that cause vomiting in the blood can cause black, sticky stools. Seek immediate medical attention, as early diagnosis can prevent additional complications.

3. Have you noticed rectal bleeding?

The lower GI tract consists of the lower part of the small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus. This area is also prone to bleeding, though not as frequently as the upper GI tract. The blood comes from the rectum and is often present in or on the stool after a bowel movement. Bright red blood may appear on toilet paper. This symptom may happen occasionally if there is a known case of hemorrhoids. If bleeding occurs with every bowel movement, there could be other complications like diverticulitis, angiodysplasia, polyps, or cancers. Don’t ignore this symptom even if the bleeding stops suddenly.

What are your next steps?

See a doctor immediately for these symptoms as there may be a medical emergency. There may be additional concerns, like abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, weakness, and paleness. The doctor will perform a physical assessment and blood tests and may request a stool sample. Patients with past cases of GI bleeding, excess use of certain medications, or surgery are at risk of developing these symptoms. Most patients are referred to a gastroenterologist for further evaluation, such as endoscopy, diagnosis, and treatment.

Take GI bleeding seriously

Any of these 3 signs of GI bleeding warrants immediate review by a doctor. The symptoms can be mild at first but can quickly worsen. GI symptoms can feel embarrassing but must not be ignored. Severe bleeding can lead to complications like shock, respiratory distress, and even death if left untreated. Most cases, when tracked early, can be addressed with minimal complications.

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