Upper Gi Bleeding

* Upper GI bleeding: The upper GI tract includes the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach), stomach, and first part of the small intestine.

* Lower GI bleeding: The lower GI tract includes much of the small intestine, large intestine or bowels, rectum, and anus.

Upper GIB:

* Gastric and duodenal ulcer

* Gastritis and esophagitis

* Esophageal and gastric varices

* Mallory-Weiss tear

* Aortoenteric fistula

Lower GIB:

* Diverticulosis

* Angiodysplasia

* Carcinoma

* Colitis (infectious, ischemic, inflammatory bowel disease)

* Anorectal (hemorrhoids, fissures)

Ileus is a temporary arrest of intestinal peristalsis. It occurs most commonly after abdominal surgery, particularly when the intestines have been manipulated. Symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and vague abdominal discomfort. Diagnosis is based on x-ray findings and clinical impression. Treatment is supportive, with nasogastric suction and IV fluids.

* A mechanical cause, which means something is in the way

* Ileus, a condition in which the bowel does not work correctly, but there is no structural problem causing it

Paralytic ileus, also called pseudo-obstruction, is one of the major causes of intestinal obstruction in infants and children. Causes of paralytic ileus may include:

* Bacteria or viruses that cause intestinal infections (gastroenteritis)

* Chemical, electrolyte, or mineral imbalances (such as decreased potassium levels)

* Complications of abdominal surgery

* Decreased blood supply to the intestines (mesenteric ischemia)

* Infections inside the abdomen, such as appendicitis

* Kidney or lung disease

* Use of certain medicines, especially narcotics

Mechanical causes of intestinal obstruction may include:

* Adhesions or scar tissue that forms after surgery

* Foreign bodies (objects that are swallowed and block the intestines)

* Gallstones (rare)

* Hernias

* Impacted stool

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