Stomach Bleeding: What Is It, Symptoms, Causes, and How Does It Go Away?

The human body contains many systems, one of which is the gastrointestinal system.

The human body contains many systems, one of which is the gastrointestinal system. The gastrointestinal system is divided into two parts: the upper and lower sections. The stomach is located in the upper part of this system. Any bleeding that occurs in the stomach for any reason is referred to as stomach bleeding. Since it can arise from very serious conditions, it is crucial for the diagnosis and treatment to be performed as quickly as possible for the patient's life. However, in many cases, patients may not realize they are experiencing stomach bleeding. Therefore, it is important to know the symptoms of stomach bleeding and the diseases that can cause it. In this way, patients can evaluate their own bodies and seek examination without delay.

What is Stomach Bleeding?

Stomach bleeding is defined as bleeding occurring at any point within the gastrointestinal system. The gastrointestinal system consists of the large intestine, small intestine, esophagus, stomach, rectum, and anus. Stomach bleeding is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom that can arise as a result of one or more diseases. Depending on which part of the gastrointestinal system the bleeding occurs, it is classified as either upper or lower bleeding. Since the stomach is located in the upper part of this system, it is also referred to as upper gastrointestinal bleeding. According to studies, stomach bleeding, which can result from various conditions, is more common in men than in women. In particular, in our country, where the use of medication is high, stomach bleeding due to side effects of medications is frequently observed, and these cases can be quite serious. Factors such as heavy tobacco use, gastritis, ulcers, tumors, and unhealthy eating habits can all lead to stomach bleeding. As stomach bleeding is a risky condition, it is important to learn its symptoms and causes to prevent it from threatening life.

What Are the Symptoms of Stomach Bleeding?

Since the causes of bleeding in the stomach, which is part of the upper gastrointestinal system, are numerous, its symptoms are also highly variable. In emergency cases, the symptoms of stomach bleeding may be more severe, while in milder cases, the symptoms may be less pronounced and not as intense. However, in all cases, it is crucial to take these symptoms seriously and seek treatment without delay. The symptoms of bleeding on the inner wall of the stomach, which can be examined in several different structures, include weakness, abdominal pain, fatigue, heartburn, anemia, and dizziness. Early symptoms of acute stomach bleeding include vomiting red blood, seeing blood in the stool, passing black or tarry stools, and vomiting blood with the appearance of coffee grounds. As a result of this bleeding, blood loss also occurs. Symptoms of blood loss include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, abdominal pain and cramps, pale skin, low blood pressure, a faster-than-normal pulse, reduced or no urination, and loss of consciousness. Other common symptoms of stomach bleeding include:

• Indigestion and bloating,
• Diarrhea,
• Excessive sweating,
• Low blood pressure and related dizziness,
• Difficulty standing and fainting.

What Causes Stomach Bleeding?

One of the main causes of stomach bleeding is injury to the point where the esophagus and stomach are connected. This is more commonly caused by liver diseases, where varicose-like structures in the lower part of the esophagus can tear or rupture over time, leading to stomach bleeding. Tumors affecting the upper gastrointestinal system can cause bleeding as they progress to the stomach. Bacteria, such as Helicobacter pylori, can lead to the development of peptic ulcers. Peptic ulcer disease causes open sores to develop in the lining of the stomach or the duodenum, which can lead to stomach bleeding as the ulcer progresses. Tears in the esophageal walls can lead to injuries and bleeding, a condition medically known as "Mallory-Weiss Syndrome." Certain heart diseases and the blood-thinning medications commonly used by the elderly can lead to stomach bleeding. Therefore, it is crucial to use prescribed medications while considering their side effects.

How is Stomach Bleeding Diagnosed?

The first step in diagnosis is a physical examination to assess the symptoms. Along with the physical examination, information about the patient's medical history is gathered, and several tests are conducted. Blood tests are performed to determine liver function, platelet count, and coagulation values. Fecal analysis and stool tests are also conducted to identify the cause of any bleeding. Endoscopy can be used to examine the gastrointestinal system, where a camera is inserted through the mouth to detect the location and extent of the bleeding. Colonoscopy is also a test used to examine the large intestine and rectum. A biopsy to collect tissue samples from the stomach or any part of the gastrointestinal system may also be performed as a diagnostic method. To detect bleeding vessels or other abnormalities, an angiography test may be used, where dye is injected into the bloodstream. This test can help identify the source of the bleeding. In addition to these tests, a CT scan may be required to view the entire body. However, it is very rare for the source of the bleeding to always be identified. In such cases, doctors may resort to surgical intervention to examine the entire gastrointestinal system.

What Are the Symptoms Associated with Stomach Bleeding?

Stomach bleeding is often known as a serious symptom that accompanies other diseases. Therefore, the symptoms of the disease causing stomach bleeding may appear alongside the symptoms of the stomach bleeding itself, making the symptom presentation more varied. If stomach bleeding is due to a tumor in the gastrointestinal system, the symptoms of the tumor will accompany the symptoms of stomach bleeding. The same is true for other diseases and their symptoms. However, common symptoms include:

• Loss of appetite caused by stomach bleeding,
• Stomach pain due to ulcers or injuries in the stomach,
• Low blood pressure resulting from blood loss,
• Dizziness due to low blood pressure.

These symptoms are serious conditions resulting from the bleeding, and patients should take these symptoms seriously and seek treatment without delay. Otherwise, stomach bleeding can lead to severe health problems and endanger life.

How Does Stomach Bleeding Stop?

To stop stomach bleeding, all treatments must be applied correctly. It is crucial to identify the source of the bleeding. Gastroscopy is one of the methods used to detect the bleeding. Once the source is identified, medication and heat-based methods can be applied to stop the bleeding. After the bleeding is controlled, the patient may need continued medication to ensure their health is not jeopardized. If the bleeding is caused by diseases like ulcers, treatment for the ulcer is necessary. A treatment method called Hemoclip, which is used to close the bleeding area in the stomach, is commonly used. As the ulcers heal, these clips naturally fall off, signaling the end of the treatment. If stomach bleeding is caused by stomach cancer or other gastrointestinal cancers, treatment methods like radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be applied. For bleeding caused by varices, endoscopic treatment methods can be used. If these treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention may be necessary to treat stomach bleeding.

To live a healthy life, the symptoms of stomach bleeding should be taken seriously, and a medical examination should be sought without delay. This way, the disease can be treated before it leads to more serious problems.