What is GI Bleed?                   

A gastrointestinal (GI) bleed is when there’s bleeding in your digestive tract. Your digestive tract includes your esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine (colon).

GI bleeding can happen for many reasons, such as ulcers, inflammation, or abnormal blood vessels. It can cause blood to appear in your vomit or stool, making it look black and tarry or bright red.

GI bleeding can be dangerous and requires medical attention. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the bleeding. Doctors may use medications, endoscopy, or surgery to stop the bleeding and treat the underlying cause.

It’s essential to seek medical help if you have symptoms of GI bleeding, as it can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Can You Survive a GI Bleed?

Yes, you can survive a gastrointestinal (GI) bleed, but it depends on several factors, including the cause, severity of the bleeding, and how quickly you receive medical treatment. GI bleeding can be mild or severe.

Mild cases may stop on their own or with simple treatments, while severe cases require urgent medical attention. If left untreated, severe GI bleeding can lead to life-threatening complications such as shock, organ damage, or even death.

Bleeding in the upper part of the digestive tract (upper GI bleed) can be more dangerous because it can lead to faster blood loss and more severe symptoms such as vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools.

Lower GI bleeding, which occurs in the lower part of the digestive tract, like the colon or rectum, may be less severe but still requires medical evaluation and treatment.

If you experience symptoms such as vomiting blood, passing bloody or black stools, or feeling dizzy or lightheaded, seek emergency medical care immediately. With timely intervention and appropriate treatment, many people can recover from GI bleeding and go on to lead healthy lives.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic