Upper GI Bleeding and Black Stool

What is Upper GI Bleeding?

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding occurs in the upper part of the digestive tract, which includes:

• Esophagus (the tube that connects your throat to your stomach)
• Stomach
• First part of the small intestine (duodenum)

When bleeding occurs in these areas, the blood gets partially digested as it moves through your digestive system, causing stools to appear black and tarry (known as melena).

What Causes Upper GI Bleeding?

Several conditions can cause upper GI bleeding:

• Peptic ulcers (most common cause)
• Esophageal varices (enlarged veins in the esophagus)
• Mallory-Weiss tears (tears in the esophagus from violent vomiting)
• Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
• Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
• Cancer of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum
• Portal hypertensive gastropathy

What Are the Warning Signs of Upper GI Bleeding?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Black, tarry stools with a foul smell
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• Signs of shock:
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Rapid or weak pulse
  • Drop in blood pressure
  • Cold, clammy skin
  • Confusion or altered mental state
• Severe abdominal pain
• Unexplained weakness or fatigue
• Shortness of breath

How is Upper GI Bleeding Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosis may involve:

• Physical examination
• Blood tests
• Upper endoscopy (most common diagnostic tool)
• Imaging tests (CT scan, angiography)

Treatment options include:

• Medications to reduce stomach acid
• Endoscopic procedures to stop bleeding
• Blood transfusions if necessary
• Treatment of underlying conditions
• Surgery in severe cases