Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Bleeding that originates anywhere in the gastrointestine (GI) tract and may manifest as hematemesis, hematochezia, melena, or maroon-colored stools. Upper GI bleeds proximal to the ligament of Treitz are most frequently due to peptic ulcer disease, while lower GI bleeds distal to the ligament of Treitz are most commonly due to diverticulosis. This chapter provides information on the prevention, prognosis, common pitfalls in diagnosis and management, and treatment and diagnostic algorithms of gastrointestinal bleeding as well as national and international society guidelines for managing gastrointestinal bleeding. With a suspected upper GI bleed, proton pump inhibitors should be started on presentation to prevent GI bleeding; beta-blockers should be used as primary prophylaxis of bleeding from varices. Early upper endoscopy surveillance of upper GI ulcers and detection and treatment of Helicobacter pylori causes a reduction GI bleeds.