Gastrointestinal Bleeds
Your Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract is your mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestines, large intestines, rectum, and anus. When asked if you have had any GI bleeds, you are being asked about bleeds coming from your stomach, intestines and rectum.
The signs and symptoms listed below can be the result of other illnesses, but always assume they are due to a bleed and contact your physician or treatment center.
Signs and Symptoms
- Prolonged blood loss can result in anemia or shock.
- Recognizing blood in your stool or vomit:
- Bright red blood coating your bowel movement (stool)
- Dark red blood mixed with the stool
- Black or tar-like, sticky stool
- Bright red blood in vomit
- Black coffee ground looking vomit
Symptoms of acute GI bleeding
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Cramping abdominal pain
- Feeling like you are going to faint
- Paler than usual skin
- Certain medications can change the color of you stool; be sure to read the label for side effect or talk to your pharmacist