Urgent and Expert Care for GI Bleeding
Dr. Tushar Madake provides rapid assessment and advanced endoscopic interventions for acute and chronic gastrointestinal bleeding, ensuring prompt diagnosis and effective hemostasis.
Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a serious symptom that can occur anywhere from the mouth to the anus. It can be a medical emergency. At Glen Clinic, we are equipped to handle both upper GI bleeding (from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum) and lower GI bleeding (from the small intestine, colon, or rectum).
Recognizing the Signs
- Upper GI Bleeding:
- Vomiting blood (red or coffee-ground appearance)
- Black, tarry stools (melena)
- Lower GI Bleeding:
- Bright red blood in the stool (hematochezia)
- Maroon-colored stools
- Signs of Significant Blood Loss: Dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, fainting.
Common Causes
- Peptic ulcers
- Esophageal varices (in patients with cirrhosis)
- Diverticulosis
- Colitis (inflammatory bowel disease, infections)
- Polyps or cancers
- Angiodysplasia (abnormal blood vessels)
Dr. Madake's Emergency and Therapeutic Approach
Timely intervention is critical. Dr. Madake is skilled in the latest endoscopic techniques to manage GI bleeding.
- Rapid Assessment and Stabilization: We prioritize patient stabilization, including IV fluids and blood transfusions if necessary.
- Emergency Endoscopy (EGD/Colonoscopy): Dr. Madake performs emergent endoscopy to identify the exact source of bleeding. This is the gold standard for both diagnosis and treatment.
- Advanced Hemostatic Techniques: Using a therapeutic endoscope, Dr. Madake can stop bleeding using various methods:
- Injection Therapy: Injecting medications like epinephrine around the bleeding site.
- Thermal Therapy: Using heat (coagulation) to seal the bleeding vessel.
- Mechanical Therapy: Placing clips (hemoclips) directly on the bleeding point.
- Variceal Banding: For esophageal varices, placing rubber bands to cut off blood flow.
- Management of Underlying Causes: After the acute bleeding is controlled, we treat the underlying condition (e.g., H. pylori for ulcers, beta-blockers for varices) to prevent re-bleeding.
- Coordinated Care: For complex cases, we coordinate with interventional radiology and surgery for additional treatment options.
If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of GI bleeding, it is a medical emergency. Seek immediate help. Dr. Madake provides expert, life-saving endoscopic care.