Gastrointestinal Emergencies

Recognizing and Treating Gastrointestinal Emergencies

Are you experiencing unusual gastrointestinal emergencies (GI) symptoms? Don’t dismiss them. GI issues can escalate quickly, potentially leading to serious health complications.

At ER of Fort Worth, we provide expert care when your digestive system needs immediate attention.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Conditions

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a complex network stretching from mouth to anus, including the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. This intricate system handles digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination. When your GI tract malfunctions, the effects can be severe and far-reaching.

A 2023 Gastroenterology Report highlights GI complaints as a major reason for ER visits. Understanding these conditions can help you recognize when to seek emergency care.

Types of Gastrointestinal Disorders

GI disorders fall into two main categories:

Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs)

➕ No clear physical cause

➕ Identified through standard tests like blood work or imaging

➕ Result from abnormal muscle movements, sensitive nerves, or brain-gut communication issues

➕ Examples: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Structural Gastrointestinal Disorders (SGIDs)

➕ Caused by physical changes in the GI tract

➕ Identified through imaging tests and/or blood tests

➕ Can result from chronic excess pressure, persistent diarrhea, or pregnancy

➕ Examples: Tumors, narrowing of the GI tract, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

4 Common Gastrointestinal Emergencies

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Bleeding that occurs anywhere in the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. Symptoms include vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, bright red blood in stools, dizziness, and fainting.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that aids in digestion and regulates blood sugar, can lead to severe complications. Watch out for severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, nausea, vomiting, fever, and rapid pulse.

Bowel Obstruction

A blockage preventing normal flow of intestinal contents requires immediate attention. Warning signs include cramping abdominal pain, inability to pass gas or stool, bloating, and vomiting.

Cholecystitis (Gallbladder Inflammation)

Inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to gallstones blocking the bile duct, can lead to severe health complications. Symptoms include intense pain in the upper right abdomen, fever, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes).

Why Gastrointestinal Conditions Demand Emergency Care

These GI conditions require urgent care as they can quickly escalate to complications such as:
➕ Significant blood loss and shock
➕ Severe pancreatic complications
➕ Gallbladder rupture
➕ Systemic infection
Ignoring these symptoms or delaying treatment can transform a manageable condition into a life-threatening emergency.

Why Choose ER of Fort Worth for Gastrointestinal Conditions?

At ER of Fort Worth, we provide specialized care for gastrointestinal emergencies with:

➕ Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with CT scans, ultrasound, and X-rays for quick and accurate diagnosis.

➕ Comprehensive Laboratory Services: We conduct essential blood and stool tests on-site to diagnose and manage GI conditions.

➕ Expert Medical Team: Our experienced emergency physicians specialize in treating a wide range of GI conditions.

➕ 24/7 Availability: GI emergencies don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we. We’re here round-the-clock to provide the care you need.

➕ Compassionate Care: We prioritize both your physical comfort and peace of mind, ensuring you receive prompt and empathetic treatment.

At ER of Fort Worth, we’re committed to getting you back to your normal activities as quickly as possible. Our team combines medical expertise with compassionate care to address your GI emergency effectively.

Remember, when it comes to gastrointestinal issues, trusting your gut instinct is crucial. If you’re experiencing severe or unusual GI symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

24/7 Emergency Room

With Board Certified & Highly trained Pediatric