Can you drink milk if you have upper gastrointestinal bleeding?

Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
Updated on November 26, 2024
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Patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding are advised not to drink milk. Although milk can dilute gastric acid, it can stimulate the secretion of gastric acid, exacerbating symptoms of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. In severe cases, it can lead to a recurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding should avoid drinking milk during the acute phase. After the onset of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, it is recommended to visit the gastroenterology department of a formal hospital as soon as possible, and complete auxiliary examinations such as an electronic gastroscopy to clarify the diagnosis. Additionally, treatment for upper gastrointestinal bleeding can be carried out through relevant endoscopic therapies. Patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding should consume easily digestible foods in their diet.

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Written by Wang Li Bing
Intensive Care Medicine Department
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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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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 Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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Clinical manifestations of upper gastrointestinal bleeding

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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Written by Wang Li Bing
Intensive Care Medicine Department
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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 Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Upper gastrointestinal bleeding, vomiting blood suggests how much bleeding?

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding presenting as hematemesis indicates a bleeding volume of at least 200 mL. If a patient experiences upper gastrointestinal bleeding accompanied by vomiting blood, it suggests a significant amount of bleeding and should be taken very seriously. Patients should seek treatment at a specialized gastrointestinal department of a reputable hospital and have an endoscopic examination as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis. In addition, endoscopic hemostasis can be performed. After the occurrence of hematemesis due to upper gastrointestinal bleeding, it is recommended to be hospitalized for treatment. Treatment should also include the use of hemostatic drugs, acid-suppressing medications, and drugs that protect the gastric mucosa. Acid suppression medications can include proton pump inhibitors or H2 receptor antagonists, among others.