What is the treatment for gastrointestinal bleeding?
Those with heavy bleeding may need blood transfusions. Fluids may be given through a an intravenous line, which is a thin tube inserted into a person's vein. Further treatment is often directed at the cause, if it can be determined. After a blood transfusion, the person is observed closely for evidence of continued bleeding, such as an increased pulse rate, a drop in
blood pressure, or a loss of blood from the mouth or anus.
Endoscopy offers the opportunity not only to diagnose the precise source of bleeding but, in addition, to allow doctors to apply therapy there as well. A variety of endoscopic therapies are useful for the patient with GI tract bleeding. For example, if there is bleeding from an ulcer, the doctor can apply cautery to stop the bleeding or to manage it with another endoscopic treatment such as using an injection needle or lasers or even apply clips. Or if the patient is bleeding from esophageal varices or hemorrhoids, the doctor can apply a rubber band to the bleeding area. If the bleeding is coming from a polyp, the physician can simply snare it off. If the patient is bleeding from a tumor then cautery or injection can be utilized.
Once bleeding is controlled, medicines are often prescribed to prevent recurrences of bleeding. Medical treatment of ulcers to ensure healing and maintenance therapy to prevent ulcer recurrence can also lessen the chances of recurrent bleeding. There is also information to suggest that if Helicobacter pylori can be eliminated, then this treatment can prevent re-bleeding.
Bleeding of the lower intestine usually does not require emergency treatment unless the person loses a large amount of blood quickly. Tests to locate the bleeding precisely, such as endoscopy or radionuclide scans, may be needed. Surgery can be performed if bleeding does not stop. |
