Common Causes of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding refers to bleeding that occurs in the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and upper jejunum. The condition typically presents with symptoms such as hematemesis (vomiting blood) or melena (black, tarry stools). It is commonly associated with several underlying factors, which are outlined below.

1. Gastrointestinal Conditions

Inflammation, ulcers, erosions, diverticula, tumors, and physical injuries in the upper digestive tract are among the most common causes of bleeding. These conditions can damage the lining of the digestive system, leading to hemorrhage. Peptic ulcers, for example, are often linked to Helicobacter pylori infection or the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

2. Portal Hypertension and Venous Obstruction

Conditions that increase pressure in the portal vein, such as liver cirrhosis, portal vein thrombosis, or portal vein inflammation, can lead to the development of varices—enlarged veins in the esophagus or stomach—that are prone to rupture and bleed. This type of bleeding can be severe and life-threatening.

3. Diseases of Adjacent Organs

Cancers of the liver, bile ducts, or pancreas may erode into the gastrointestinal tract, causing bleeding into the digestive system. This is less common but can be a significant contributor to upper GI bleeding in certain patient populations.

4. Acute Infections

Severe systemic infections like sepsis, scarlet fever, or epidemic hemorrhagic fever can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding due to widespread vascular damage and coagulation abnormalities. These infections may also compromise the integrity of the digestive tract lining.

5. Hematologic Disorders

Bleeding disorders such as thrombocytopenic purpura, allergic purpura, leukemia, and aplastic anemia can impair the blood's ability to clot, increasing the risk of bleeding anywhere in the body, including the upper gastrointestinal tract.

6. Other Contributing Factors

Non-gastrointestinal conditions such as uremia (high levels of toxins in the blood due to kidney failure), severe hypoxia (lack of oxygen), drug allergies, or poisoning can also contribute to upper GI bleeding. These factors may cause mucosal damage or interfere with normal clotting mechanisms.