Prevention and emergency treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding require a two-pronged approach: lifestyle adjustments and timely medical attention. Key measures include avoiding irritating foods, controlling underlying diseases, and seeking immediate medical attention upon the onset of symptoms. Preventive measures include avoiding alcohol, reducing the intake of spicy foods, and controlling gastric acid secretion; emergency measures include maintaining a supine position, abstaining from food and water, and immediate medical attention.
1. Avoid irritating foods. Alcohol, spicy foods, and coffee can irritate the gastric mucosa and increase the risk of bleeding. It is recommended to maintain a light diet, consume more fiber-rich foods such as vegetables and fruits, and reduce the intake of fried and pickled foods.
2. Control the underlying disease. Gastric ulcers, cirrhosis, and esophageal varices are common causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Regular checkups, taking medication as prescribed, and controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels can effectively reduce the risk of bleeding. For example, patients with gastric ulcers need to take acid-suppressing drugs long-term, and patients with cirrhosis need to have their liver function monitored regularly.
3. Avoid overwork and emotional fluctuations. Prolonged mental stress and overwork can induce excessive gastric acid secretion, increasing the risk of bleeding. It is recommended to maintain a regular sleep schedule and engage in appropriate relaxation activities, such as yoga and meditation, to relieve stress.
4. First Aid Measures. If symptoms such as vomiting blood or black stools occur, immediately lay the person flat on their back with their head turned to one side to prevent aspiration. Do not eat or drink anything to reduce the burden on the stomach, and call emergency services immediately for medical attention. While waiting for rescue, apply a cold compress to the upper abdomen to reduce bleeding.
5. Drug treatment. Doctors may use hemostatic drugs such as thrombin or somatostatin, or perform endoscopic hemostasis, depending on the condition. For severe bleeding, surgical intervention may be necessary, such as subtotal gastrectomy or vascular embolization.
Prevention and emergency treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding require attention to diet and emotional management in daily life, along with actively controlling underlying diseases. Seeking timely medical attention when symptoms appear is crucial for saving lives. Through comprehensive measures, the risk of bleeding can be effectively reduced, and health can be protected.