Treatment
Treatment for a GI tract emergency depends on the condition. Treatment may involve intravenous (IV) fluids and medications, drainage of digestive contents (e.g., nasogastric tube, gastric lavage), blood transfusion, and surgery.
Delaying treatment for a gastrointestinal emergency can lead to severe complications and death. Complications include the following:
- Changes in heart rate (e.g., tachycardia)
- Dehydration (excessive fluid loss; signs include dark-colored urine, fatigue, lethargy, headache, and fever)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Fainting (syncope; caused by reduced blood flow to the brain)
- Shortness of breath
- Shock (insufficient blood flow)
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 29 Feb 2008
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 22 Feb 2008
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