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Simple Guide to Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Related Conditions

Devin Ross

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What is Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding?

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is defined as bleeding from the digestive tract below the ligament of Treitz (a ligament that connects the stomach to the duodenum). LGIB can be either acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (ongoing and less severe).

A Simple Guide To Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding Diagnosis, Treatment And Related Conditions (A Simple Guide to Medical Conditions)

by Kenneth Kee

4.7 out of 5

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Causes of Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The most common causes of LGIB include:

* Hemorrhoids * Diverticular disease * Colon cancer * Anal fissures * Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) * Angiodysplasia * Ischemic colitis * Rectal prolapse * Peptic ulcer disease

Symptoms of Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The symptoms of LGIB can vary depending on the cause and severity of the bleeding. Some common symptoms include:

* Blood in the stool (hematochezia) * Bright red rectal bleeding * Maroon or black stools (melena) * Abdominal pain * Nausea and vomiting * Lightheadedness or dizziness * Rapid heartbeat * Shortness of breath

Diagnosis of Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The diagnosis of LGIB begins with a medical history and physical examination. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, risk factors, and past medical history. They will also perform a physical examination to look for signs of bleeding, such as blood in the stool or rectal bleeding.

To confirm the diagnosis of LGIB, your doctor may Free Download one or more of the following tests:

* Colonoscopy * Sigmoidoscopy * Upper endoscopy * Capsule endoscopy * Barium enema * Computed tomography (CT) scan * Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan

Treatment of Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

The treatment of LGIB depends on the cause and severity of the bleeding. Some common treatments include:

* Medications to stop the bleeding * Endoscopic procedures to cauterize or remove the source of bleeding * Surgery to remove the affected portion of the digestive tract * Blood transfusions to replace blood loss

Related Conditions

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding can be associated with a number of related conditions, including:

* Anemia * Iron deficiency * Vitamin B12 deficiency * Malnutrition * Sepsis

Prevention of Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

There are no surefire ways to prevent LGIB, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

* Eat a healthy diet high in fiber * Get regular exercise * Maintain a healthy weight * Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption * See your doctor regularly for screenings and checkups

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of conditions. The diagnosis and treatment of LGIB depends on the cause and severity of the bleeding. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of LGIB, it is important to see your doctor right away to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.

A Simple Guide To Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding Diagnosis, Treatment And Related Conditions (A Simple Guide to Medical Conditions)

by Kenneth Kee

4.7 out of 5