Before we begin: Gastrointestinal bleeding can be a a signal of a serious disease. Find out about GI tract symptoms, tests, and related conditions.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about gastrointestinal bleeding. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
Your digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) tract includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine or colon, rectum, and anus. Bleeding can come from any of these areas. The amount of bleeding can be so small that only a lab test can find it.
Signs of bleeding in the digestive tract depend on where it is and how much bleeding there is.
Signs of bleeding in the upper digestive tract include:
Bright red blood in vomit
Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Black or tarry stool
Dark blood mixed with stool
Signs of bleeding in the lower digestive tract include:
Black or tarry stool
Dark blood mixed with stool
Stool mixed or coated with bright red blood
GI bleeding is not a disease, but a symptom of a disease. There are many possible causes of GI bleeding, including hemorrhoids, peptic ulcers, tears or inflammation in the esophagus, diverticulosis and diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, colonic polyps, or cancer in the colon, stomach or esophagus.
The test used most often to look for the cause of GI bleeding is called endoscopy. It uses a flexible instrument inserted through the mouth or rectum to view the inside of the GI tract. A type of endoscopy called colonoscopy looks at the large intestine.
NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Also known as: GI bleeding.
Related topics: Bleeding, Gastrointestinal, GI Bleeding, Rectal Bleeding.
Categories: Digestive System, Symptoms.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Key Takeaways
Understanding gastrointestinal bleeding is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.