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Mucosal lacerations - gastroesophageal junction
The tear usually heals in a few days without treatment. Surgery is rarely needed. Drugs that suppress stomach acid (proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers) may be given, but it is not clear if they are helpful.
If blood loss has been great, blood transfusions may be needed. In most cases, bleeding stops without treatment within a few hours.
Repeated bleeding is uncommon and the outcome is usually good. Cirrhosis of the liver and problems with blood clotting make future bleeding episodes more likely to occur.
Hemorrhage (loss of blood)
Call your health care provider if you begin vomiting blood or if you pass bloody stools.
Bjorkman DJ. Gastrointestinal hemorrhage and occult gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 137.
Katzka DA. Esophageal disorders caused by medications, trauma, and infection. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2010:chap 45.
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