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        Digestive Diseases
        Abdominal Adhesions
                Acid Reflux (GER & GERD) in Adults
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                Anatomic Problems of the Lower GI Tract
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        About the Lower GI Tract
                Anorectal Malformations (Imperforate Anus)
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                Pancreatitis
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                Your Digestive System & How it Works
                Zollinger-Ellison SyndromeGastrointestinal (GI) Bleeding

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    Definition & Facts
    Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is any type of bleeding that starts in the GI tract. GI bleeding is a symptom of a disease or condition, rather than a disease or condition itself.
man talks with his doctor

    Symptoms & Causes
    The symptoms of GI bleeding depend on the location and how severe your bleeding is. Many different conditions can cause bleeding in your GI tract.


Diagnosis
    To diagnose GI bleeding, a doctor will first find the site of the bleeding. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor will order one or more diagnostic tests to confirm whether you have bleeding in your GI tract.

    Treatment
    Treatment of bleeding in your GI tract depends on the cause or location of your bleeding. Doctors can prevent GI bleeding by treating the conditions that cause the bleeding.


Eating, Diet, & Nutrition
    You can help prevent GI bleeding by avoiding certain foods and habits. Do not drink alcoholic beverages if you have GI bleeding.

    Clinical Trials
    The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and other components of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conduct and support research into many diseases and conditions.

    Related Conditions & Diseases
    Ulcerative Colitis
    Colon Polyps
    Diverticular Disease
    Cirrhosis
    Peptic Ulcer Disease


Related Diagnostic Tests
    Colonoscopy
    Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
    Lower GI Series
    Upper GI Endoscopy
    Upper GI Series


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    This content is also available in:
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Related Research
    See more about digestive diseases research at NIDDK.
        Last Reviewed October 2016

    

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