Upper Gastrointestinal Massive Bleeding Causes

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding refers to hemorrhage occurring in the digestive tract above the Treitz ligament of the duodenum. Massive bleeding is defined as losing more than 1000 mL of blood within a few hours or losing more than 20% of the total blood volume in the body. Clinically, the following are among the most common causes of such bleeding:

Chronic Liver Disease

One of the leading causes is chronic liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, which can lead to esophageal and gastric varices. When these enlarged veins rupture, the resulting hemorrhage can be severe and life-threatening. Patients with this condition often experience sudden and intense bleeding, making prompt medical attention crucial.

Digestive Ulcers

Peptic ulcers, including both gastric and duodenal ulcers, are among the most frequent causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. These ulcers develop when the protective lining of the stomach or duodenum is eroded by acidic digestive juices. If left untreated, they can lead to significant blood loss and complications.

Acute Erosive Hemorrhagic Gastritis

Causes and Effects

Acute erosive hemorrhagic gastritis can also cause upper gastrointestinal bleeding. This condition typically results from inflammation and erosion of the stomach lining, often triggered by stress, medications like NSAIDs, or excessive alcohol consumption. The bleeding may vary in severity, and in some cases, it can be substantial enough to require hospitalization.

Gastric Cancer

Another serious cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding is gastric cancer. While less common than ulcers or gastritis, tumors in the stomach can erode blood vessels, leading to internal bleeding. Early detection and treatment are essential in managing this condition and preventing severe complications.