Detecting a GI Bleed
An interview of Robin Midian-Singh, M.D. Allegheny General Hospital Department of Gastroenterology
Detecting GI blood loss is important for any person. Patient who cannot accept blood transfusions need to especially guard their blood supply by detecting and seeking assistance for any GI bleed.
What might indicate to you that you are suffering from a gastro-intestinal bleed? Dr. Midian-Singh reports that an examination of your stool for changes in color can indicate blood loss. Visible blood is an obvious indicator. Less obvious to some is that black, tarry stool is also indicative of GI bleeding. Dr. Midian-Singh explains that as blood is lost in the GI tract, it is digested and turns black.
Bleeding may also become evident when a person vomits. Bright red bleeding is sometimes observed. At other times, the vomit may have the appearance of coffee grounds. This too is a symptom of bleeding in the digestive tract according to Dr. Midian-Singh.
If any of these symptoms are observed, medical care should be sought without delay. Dr. Midian-Singh cautions that at early onset, a person may still feel well and may be inclined to dismiss his symptoms. However, as with most situations a patient’s condition can rapidly deteriorate. Symptoms like decreased blood pressure and dizziness may indicate that bleeding has been of longer duration according to Dr. Midian-Singh.
Patients who cannot accept blood transfusions need to respond quickly to any such symptoms. Don’t forget that you the patient need to be an important team player in your own health!
Also see: A Physician's
Perspective: Gastroenterology and the Bloodless Patient.
