Dr. Hari Prasad Yadav - Expert Care in Vijay Nagar and Saket Nagar, Indore
Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a symptom or sign of an underlying condition rather than a disease itself. It refers to any form of bleeding in any region of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the rectum. Visible symptoms may include blood in vomit or stool. This condition requires medical attention, and if you experience any symptoms, it’s essential to consult a gastrointestinal Bleeding Doctor in Indore to get Gastrointestinal Bleeding Treatment in Indore.
Fast Facts on Gastrointestinal Bleeding
- GI bleeding is a symptom of an existing disease or disorder, not a disease itself.
- Blood in stool or vomit may not always be visible or red.
- The severity of GI bleeding can vary; it can be mild or life-threatening.
- Advanced imaging technology makes it easier to locate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Treatment depends on the location and severity of the bleeding.
Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Overt Symptoms
• Vomiting blood or vomit with a red or dark brown blood-like appearance.
• Blood in stool, making it appear tarry or black.
• Rectal bleeding.
Occult Symptoms
• Lightheadedness
• Breathlessness
• Chest or abdominal pain
Causes of Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Upper GI Tract Causes
• Mallory-Weiss Tears: Tears in the esophagus lining.
• Esophageal Varices: Enlarged veins in the esophagus due to severe liver disease.
• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus.
• Peptic Ulcers: The most common cause, affecting the lining of the esophagus.
Lower GI Tract Causes
• Diverticular Disease: Small pouches in the digestive tract.
• Ulcerative Colitis: Inflammatory bowel diseases.
• Tumors: Cancerous or noncancerous growths that can cause bleeding.
Risk Factors for Gastrointestinal Bleeding
- History of GI bleeding or peptic ulcers.
- Older age.
- Use of anticoagulants.
- High doses of aspirin.
Diagnosing Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Indore
- Blood Examination
- Stool Examination
- Upper Endoscopy
- Nasogastric Lavage
- Colonoscopy
- Capsule Endoscopy
- Angiography
- Imaging
- Enteroscopy
Treatment and Prevention of Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Indore
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. GI bleeding can often stop on its own, but in cases like peptic ulcers, an endoscopy may be performed to stop the bleeding. For GI bleeding caused by polyps, a colonoscopy is used to remove the polyps. A Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) is prescribed to reduce stomach acid production in upper GI tract bleeding.
Dr. Hari Prasad Yadav may also advise discontinuing aspirin and other medications, depending on the diagnosis. Prevention focuses on maintaining a healthy liver and digestive system. To prevent GI bleeding:
- Avoid alcohol.
- Follow a balanced diet.