Clinical manifestations of upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
Updated on March 09, 2025
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Patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding typically present with vomiting blood or bleeding from the stool. Of course, if the bleeding amount is small, there may be no other discomfort. However, if the bleeding is significant, symptoms may include dizziness, fatigue, chest tightness, and palpitations related to low blood volume. Some patients might also experience abdominal discomfort, such as abdominal pain, bloating, or even indigestion. For those suspected of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, it is advisable to further complete blood tests, stool analysis, and electrocardiograms. It is necessary to promptly carry out a gastroscopy when needed to clarify the cause of the bleeding, and consider if it is due to ulcers or vascular malformations. In the early stages of treatment, symptomatic management should be prioritized, and patients are advised to actively rehydrate to improve symptoms of low blood volume and to transfuse red blood cells if necessary to correct anemia. Once the cause is identified, causative treatment should be added, such as the use of acid-suppressing and gastric-protecting drugs for bleeding associated with peptic ulcers. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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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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Upper gastrointestinal bleeding examination methods

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is relatively common in clinical practice. The main diagnostic methods include gastroscopy, barium meal examination of the gastrointestinal tract, and DS imaging of the gastrointestinal tract, among others. If a patient experiences a large amount of bleeding at a rapid pace after upper gastrointestinal bleeding, it can lead to a drop in blood volume and hypovolemic shock, which can be life-threatening. In such cases, it is crucial to seek prompt medical treatment and use hemostatic drugs, and even endoscopic hemostasis or surgical intervention may be necessary to actively save the patient's life.

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Written by Wang Li Bing
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What kind of stool is there with upper gastrointestinal bleeding?

In clinical terms, the upper gastrointestinal tract refers to the digestive system above the ligament of Treitz, primarily including the duodenum, stomach, and esophagus. If there is a minor amount of bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, the color of the stool may not change significantly. However, if there is substantial bleeding, the blood can react with gastric acid and may form black, tar-like stools. If gastrointestinal bleeding is detected, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. An endoscopic examination can be performed to establish a clear diagnosis and undertake aggressive treatment, which can potentially save the patient's life.

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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.

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What to eat when there is upper gastrointestinal bleeding?

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is relatively common in clinical practice. Its main causes include bleeding from gastroduodenal ulcers, rupture of esophagogastric varices, and bleeding caused by gastric cancer, among others. When upper gastrointestinal bleeding occurs, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. After systematic treatment, if the symptoms of bleeding are controlled, the patient can then consume small amounts of clear broth and thin porridge, and gradually transition back to a normal diet. However, the patient should avoid spicy and irritating foods to prevent the recurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding.