What is upper gastrointestinal bleeding?
A person with upper gastrointestinal bleeding has bleeding from the esophagus, the stomach, or the first portion of the small intestine. Common causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding include gastritis, esophagitis and peptic ulcer disease. Blood loss may result in anemia.

What are the symptoms of upper gastrointestinal bleeding?
Common symptoms of upper gastrointestinal bleeding include vomiting blood, vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds, black stools, red stools, or rectal bleeding. Additional symptoms of anemia include rapid pulse, lightheadedness, fainting, and pale skin.

How does the doctor treat upper gastrointestinal bleeding?
The treatment for upper gastrointestinal bleeding depends on the underlying cause. Treatment for upper gastrointestinal bleeding may include intravenous fluid, medications that reduce the production of stomach acid, or a blood transfusion. Severe upper gastrointestinal bleeding may require treatment with upper GI endoscopy or surgery.