Gastrointestinal (GI) Bleeding

Bleeding can occur at any point along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the esophagus down to the rectum and anus. Sometimes the amount of bleeding is so small that it can only be detected via laboratory testing, while other times it is much more obvious – such as when a person is vomiting blood or notices blood with their bowel movements. GI bleeds don’t always indicate a serious health condition – for example, hemorrhoids can cause bleeding that may resolve on its own or with topical medications. However, because GI bleeding can potentially be a sign of cancer and other serious disorders (such as a bleeding ulcer) – and because over time, it can cause other health issues such as anemia – it’s important to seek medical evaluation for this condition as soon as possible. Treatment will depend upon the determined cause.