Angiodysplasia of the Gastrointestinal Tract
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.
Angiodysplasia occurs when blood vessels in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract become swollen. The swelling can weaken the blood vessels and cause bleeding. Angiodysplasia can occur in any part of the GI tract, but most often occurs in the colon.
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An IV
is a small tube placed in your vein used to give you medicine or liquids.
Medicines
may be given to help slow or stop the bleeding.
Tests:
- Blood tests may be done to check for anemia.
- A sample of your bowel movement may be taken and sent to a lab for tests.
- Angiography pictures may be taken to show your arteries and blood flow. You may be given contrast liquid to help the pictures show up better. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid.
- An endoscopy is a procedure used to look at the inside of your esophagus and stomach with an endoscope. An endoscope is a bendable tube with a light and camera on the end. Your healthcare provider may remove a small sample of tissue and send it to a lab for tests.
- A colonoscopy is a procedure to look at the inside of your colon. A flexible tube with a small light and camera on the end is used.
Treatment:
- A blood transfusion may be done to give you donated blood through an IV. Clotting agents such as clotting factors and platelets may also be given during a transfusion. Clotting agents help your blood to clot.
- Procedures may be done to seal or clot your blood vessels. Argon gas, a laser, or heat may be used to seal the bleeding blood vessel. This may be done during an endoscopy or colonoscopy. Medicine may be delivered to your blood vessel to clot it during an angiography.
- Surgery to remove the affected part of your colon may be needed if you have severe bleeding.
RISKS:
You may have other bleeding episodes, even after you have received treatment. Over time, blood loss can lead to anemia. Anemia is a low number of red blood cells. This prevents your body from carrying enough oxygen to your body. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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