Can upper gastrointestinal bleeding be cured?

Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
Updated on May 23, 2025
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Gastrointestinal bleeding, especially lower gastrointestinal bleeding, is a common and urgent condition in gastroenterology. It is relatively common clinically, and generally has good treatment outcomes. However, due to different causes, the treatment efficacy and methods may vary. For upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by different reasons, the prognosis also varies. For example, upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by gastric ulcers generally responds well to medical treatment and usually can be cured. However, if considering upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by gastric tumors, particularly gastric cancer common among the general population, the treatment outcome may not be as favorable. Besides surgery and chemotherapy, the five-year survival rate is relatively higher, but for advanced-stage gastric tumors, the treatment efficacy is generally poorer and the prognosis is relatively worse.

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Written by Wang Li Bing
Intensive Care Medicine Department
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Is upper gastrointestinal bleeding dangerous?

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is life-threatening if the amount and speed of bleeding are substantial. Therefore, proactive and effective measures should be taken to rescue the patient. Generally, after anti-shock treatment and rapid blood volume replenishment, the patient's life can be saved. The main clinical treatment measures include the following: First, keep the patient in a recumbent position at rest, ensure that the airway is clear, and prevent blood aspiration due to vomiting. Second, during the bleeding period, it is necessary to enforce fasting, closely monitor the patient's vital signs, such as heartbeat, breathing, blood pressure, consciousness, etc. Third, after hospitalization, it is crucial to actively replenish blood volume, such as transfusing compatible red blood cells, plasma, cryoprecipitate, etc., for fluid expansion. Drugs like proton pump inhibitors and octreotide can be used for hemostasis. If conditions permit, a gastroscopy can be performed to stop the bleeding, and surgical treatment may be considered if necessary.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Color of vomit due to upper gastrointestinal bleeding

The color of vomit from upper gastrointestinal bleeding can be bright red or coffee-colored liquid. Because if the bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract exceeds 200ml, it can lead to vomiting blood. At this time, the vomited blood combines with stomach acid, turning into a coffee-colored liquid. If the bleeding is massive and does not have enough time to mix thoroughly with the stomach acid, it might result in the vomiting of bright red blood. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is an emergency in gastroenterology, and it requires prompt medical treatment. It's also crucial to thoroughly complete an endoscopic examination to make an accurate diagnosis. If necessary, hemostatic treatment can be performed under gastroscopy.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage rescue process

First, it is important to address the most life-threatening situations by promptly clearing the airway to prevent blood clots from gastrointestinal bleeding from blocking the bronchi, which can cause choking or asphyxiation. Additionally, it is crucial to timely replenish blood volume, as significant blood loss can directly lead to shock. While combating shock, actively identify the cause of the bleeding. Use a gastroscope for examination, and blood can be stopped under gastroscopy. If it cannot be stopped under gastroscopy, an emergency laparotomy should be performed to carry out a major gastrectomy. Postoperatively, intensive care should be strengthened, actively identifying the cause of gastric bleeding, providing symptomatic treatment, and maintaining regular dietary habits, with meals being on schedule and in fixed amounts.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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What is the most urgent measure for shock due to upper gastrointestinal bleeding?

When shock occurs due to upper gastrointestinal bleeding, the most urgent treatment measure is to quickly establish intravenous access and actively and rapidly replenish fluids and blood volume. Consideration can be given to the intravenous drip of balanced solutions, Ringer's solution or 5% glucose saline. Fluid replenishment should follow the principles of starting quickly then slowing, and using crystalloids before colloids. At the same time, after shock correction, it is crucial to perform a thorough gastroscopic examination to identify the cause and location of the bleeding, and to undertake the relevant endoscopic treatments. Additionally, patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding need comprehensive treatment including suppressing acid secretion and protecting the gastric mucosa.

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Written by Wang Li Bing
Intensive Care Medicine Department
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Upper gastrointestinal bleeding gastroscopy time

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is also relatively common in clinical practice. The most common causes are bleeding from peptic ulcers, rupture of esophageal and gastric varices, bleeding caused by gastric cancer, and various emergency bleedings. Once gastrointestinal bleeding occurs, medical attention should be sought promptly. If the patient experiences hemorrhagic shock or hemorrhagic anemia, it is necessary to provide blood transfusions and hemostasis, and replenish blood volume as active treatments. Additionally, for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, it is generally advisable to complete a gastroscopic examination within 24 to 48 hours, which can help clarify the cause of the patient’s gastrointestinal bleeding.