Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Care Instructions

Overview

The digestive or gastrointestinal tract goes from the mouth to the anus. It is often called the GI tract.

Bleeding in the upper GI tract can happen anywhere from the esophagus to the first part of the small intestine. Sometimes it's caused by an ulcer in your stomach. Or it may be caused by irritation or inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis). Your esophagus is the tube that carries food from your throat to your stomach.

Light bleeding may not cause any symptoms at first. But if you continue to bleed for a while, you may feel weak or tired.

Sudden, heavy bleeding means you need to see a doctor right away. The doctor may do some tests to find the cause of your bleeding. Treatment is needed to control the bleeding and treat the cause of the bleeding.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
Do not take blood thinners, aspirin, or other anti-inflammatory medicines, such as naproxen (Aleve) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), without talking to your doctor first.
Do not drink alcohol.
The bleeding may increase your risk for a low red blood cell count (anemia).

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

You have sudden, severe belly pain.
You vomit blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
You passed out (lost consciousness).
Your stools are maroon or very bloody.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
Your stools are black and look like tar.
You have belly pain.
You vomit or have nausea.
You have trouble swallowing, or it hurts when you swallow.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you do not get better as expected.

Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.