Signs and Symptoms of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding refers to bleeding that occurs in the digestive tract above the Treitz ligament, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. Recognizing the symptoms of upper GI bleeding is crucial for timely medical intervention.

Common Symptoms of Upper GI Bleeding

One of the most common signs of upper gastrointestinal bleeding is hematemesis — the vomiting of blood. This blood may appear dark red or bright red in color and may contain clots. In some cases, the vomit may look like coffee grounds, indicating the presence of digested blood mixed with stomach acid.

Other Indicators of GI Bleeding

Another key symptom is the passage of bloody stools. This may appear as dark red or even bright red bowel movements, depending on the location and severity of the bleeding. This symptom, known as melena or hematochezia, is a strong indicator of gastrointestinal tract bleeding.

Systemic Effects of Blood Loss

When significant bleeding occurs in the upper digestive tract, it can lead to a rapid decrease in blood volume. As a result, patients may experience dizziness, weakness, palpitations, and fatigue. In more severe cases, symptoms can escalate to include low blood pressure, fainting, and in the most critical situations, shock. Prompt medical attention is essential to stabilize the patient and identify the source of the bleeding.