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Gastrointestinal Bleeding Research Paper

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Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is bleeding somewhere along the digestive tract, between the mouth and anus. This can be caused by various problems. The severity of these problems can range from mild to serious or even life threatening. If you have GI bleeding, you may find blood in your stools (feces), you may have black stools, or you may vomit blood. If there is a lot of bleeding, you may need to stay in the hospital.

CAUSES
This condition may be caused by:
• Esophagitis. This is inflammation, irritation, or swelling of the esophagus.
• Hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the rectum.
• Anal fissures. These are areas of painful tearing that are often caused by passing hard stool.
• Diverticulosis. These are pouches that form on the colon over time, …show more content…

• Certain rectal problems can be treated with creams, suppositories, or warm baths.
• Surgery is sometimes needed.
• Blood transfusions are sometimes needed if you have lost a lot of blood.
If bleeding is slow, you may be allowed to go home. If there is a lot of bleeding, you will need to stay in the hospital for observation.

HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
• Eat foods that are high in fiber. This will help keep your stools soft. These foods include whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Eating 1–3 prunes a day works well for many people.
• Drink enough fluid to keep your urine clear or pale yellow.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:
• Your symptoms do not improve.

SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:
• Your bleeding increases.
• You feel light-headed or you faint.
• You feel weak.
• You have severe cramps in your back or abdomen.
• You pass large blood clots in your stool.
• Your symptoms are getting

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