Gastrointestinal Bleeding – Causes, Symptoms & Expert Treatment in Delhi

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is not a disease itself but a serious symptom of an underlying condition affecting your digestive tract. It can occur anywhere from the esophagus to the rectum and may appear as visible blood in vomit or stool, or remain hidden and detected only through medical tests. At Gastro Liver & Endoscopy Clinic (GLEC), Delhi, Dr. Ankita Gupta, an experienced Gastroenterologist, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for all forms of gastrointestinal bleeding using advanced endoscopic techniques and compassionate care.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The digestive tract consists of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. Gastrointestinal bleeding occurs when there is bleeding from any of these areas. It may appear suddenly and heavily (acute) or slowly over time (chronic).

There are two main types of GI bleeding:

• Upper gastrointestinal bleeding: Originates from the esophagus, stomach, or upper part of the small intestine. Common causes include ulcers, gastritis, and esophageal varices.

• Lower gastrointestinal bleeding: Occurs in the colon, rectum, or anus and is often due to hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Common Causes of Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Understanding what causes gastrointestinal bleeding is key to effective treatment. Some common reasons include:

• Peptic ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or long-term NSAID use
  
• Inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis)
  
• Tears in the esophagus (Mallory-Weiss tear)
  
• Esophageal varices (vein swelling due to liver disease)
  
• Polyps or colorectal cancer
  
• Diverticulosis (small pouches in the colon wall)
  
• Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

If you notice black or tarry stool (melena), bright red blood in stool, or vomiting blood, it’s important to seek immediate medical care.

Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The signs of gastrointestinal bleeding symptoms can vary depending on the cause and location of bleeding.
Common symptoms include:

• Blood in vomit or stool

• Black, tarry, or maroon-colored stool
  
• Fatigue or weakness
  
• Abdominal pain or cramps
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Dizziness or fainting (especially in severe cases)
  

Even small amounts of blood loss over time can lead to anemia, which may cause tiredness and pale skin.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

At GLEC, Delhi, Dr. Ankita Gupta uses modern diagnostic tools to identify the source of gastrointestinal tract bleeding. Tests may include:

• Endoscopy: To visualize and locate bleeding in the upper or lower digestive tract.
  
• Colonoscopy: To check for sources of lower gastrointestinal bleeding such as polyps or inflammation.
  
• Capsule endoscopy: For detecting bleeding in the small intestine.
  
• Blood tests: To check for anemia or infection.
  

In some cases, imaging studies such as CT scans or angiography are used for occult gastrointestinal bleeding (hidden bleeding not visible in stool).

Treatment for Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The approach to gastrointestinal bleeding treatment depends on the source and severity of the bleeding.
Treatment options may include:

• Endoscopic therapy: Dr. Ankita Gupta can stop bleeding using minimally invasive methods such as clipping, cauterization, or injection.
  
• Medication: To manage ulcers, infections, or inflammation.
  
• Lifestyle and diet management: Avoiding NSAIDs, alcohol, and spicy foods to prevent recurrence.
  
• Surgery: In rare or severe cases where endoscopic methods are insufficient.
  

Patients with chronic or recurring upper gastrointestinal bleeding or lower gastrointestinal bleeding are carefully monitored for long-term digestive health.

Expert Gastrointestinal Bleeding Care in Delhi

With years of clinical experience, Dr. Ankita Gupta offers specialized care for gastrointestinal bleeding and other digestive disorders. Her patient-first approach, combined with advanced technology, ensures accurate diagnosis and safe, effective treatment.

If you experience gas trapped in the intestines, abdominal pain, or blood in stool, don’t delay medical attention.