Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding may occur in any part of your digestive tract. This includes your esophagus, stomach, intestines, rectum, or anus. Bleeding may be mild to severe. Your bleeding may begin suddenly, or start slowly and last for a longer period of time. Bleeding that lasts for a longer period of time is called chronic GI bleeding.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call 911 for any of the following:

• You have shortness of breath or trouble breathing.
• You faint or lose consciousness.
• You have chest pain.

Return to the emergency department if:

• You feel dizzy or are too weak to stand.
• Your heart is beating faster than usual.
• You vomit blood, or your vomit looks like coffee grounds.
• You have blood in your bowel movement.
• You have abdominal pain or swelling.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• You have bowel movements that are tarry or black.
• You have nausea or are vomiting.
• You have heartburn.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate
• Zegerid
• vasopressin
• Vasostrict
• Amphojel

View more treatment options

Activity:

Rest as directed. Ask when you can return to your usual activities, such as work. Slowly do more each day.

Nutrition:

Ask if you need to be on a special diet. A special diet can help treat GI conditions and prevent problems such as GI bleeding. Eat small meals more often while your digestive system heals. Avoid or limit caffeine and spicy foods. Also avoid foods that cause heartburn, nausea, or diarrhea.

Prevent GI bleeding:

• Manage GI conditions as directed. Examples of GI conditions include gastroesophageal reflux, peptic ulcer disease, and ulcerative colitis. Take all medicines for these conditions as directed.
• Limit or do not take NSAIDs. Ask your healthcare provider if it is safe for you to take NSAIDs. NSAIDs can increase your risk for ulcers and GI bleeding.
• Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can cause ulcers and esophageal varices. Esophageal varices are swollen blood vessels in your esophagus. Over time the blood vessels become weak and may bleed.
• Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can increase your risk for ulcers. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:

You may need to return for a colonoscopy, endoscopy, or other tests. These tests can make sure you do not have more bleeding. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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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.

Further information

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