What are the causes of gastrointestinal bleeding?

There are many possible causes of gastrointestinal bleeding, which can range from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common causes of gastrointestinal bleeding include:

1. Peptic ulcers: These are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. They can cause bleeding, pain, and nausea.

2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. It can cause inflammation, irritation, and bleeding of the esophagus.

3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): This is a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the intestines. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are two common types of IBD. IBD can cause bleeding, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

4. Diverticular disease: This is a condition in which small pouches develop in the colon. They can become inflamed and bleed, especially if they become infected.

5. Esophageal varices: These are swollen veins in the esophagus that can bleed if they become too large. They are often caused by liver disease.

6. Mallory-Weiss tears: These are tears in the lining of the esophagus that can occur after severe vomiting. They can cause bleeding, pain, and nausea.

7. Angiodysplasia: This is a condition in which abnormal blood vessels develop in the intestines. They can bleed, causing anemia and other symptoms.

8. Colon cancer: This is a type of cancer that can develop in the colon or rectum. It can cause bleeding, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

9. Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the rectum that can bleed, especially during bowel movements.

10. Infections: Certain infections, such as the common cold and the flu, can cause gastrointestinal bleeding.