Gastrointestinal bleeding

Lower GI bleeding; GI bleeding; Upper GI bleeding; Hematochezia

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding refers to any bleeding that starts in the gastrointestinal tract.

Bleeding may come from any site along the GI tract, but is often divided into:

  • Upper GI bleeding: The upper GI tract includes the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach), stomach, and first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
  • Lower GI bleeding: The lower GI tract includes most of the small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus.
GI bleeding - series - Normal anatomy

The gastrointestinal tract starts at the mouth, which leads to the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, and finally, the rectum and anus. The GI tract is a long, hollow, muscular tube through which food passes, nutrients are absorbed, and wastes are eliminated.

Fecal occult blood test

A fecal occult blood test is a noninvasive test that detects the presence of hidden blood in the stool. Blood in the stool that is not visible is often the first, and in many cases the only, warning sign that a person has colorectal disease, including colon cancer.

Considerations

Causes

Home Care

When to Contact a Medical Professional

What to Expect at Your Office Visit