What is the most common cause of Upper GI Bleed?

Peptic ulcer disease is identified as the most common cause of upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding due to the prevalence of gastric and duodenal ulcers in the population. These ulcers can erode the gastric lining or duodenal walls, leading to significant bleeding, which can manifest as hematemesis (vomiting blood) or melena (dark, tarry stools). The risk factors for peptic ulcer disease include the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and infection with Helicobacter pylori.

While other conditions such as gastritis and esophageal varices can also cause upper GI bleeding, they are comparatively less common than peptic ulcer disease. Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining and can lead to bleeding, but its overall incidence as a primary cause of significant upper GI bleeding is lower than that of peptic ulcers. Esophageal varices, which are swollen veins in the esophagus often due to liver cirrhosis, can result in life-threatening bleeding but are less prevalent as a trigger in the general population. Hemorrhoids primarily affect the lower GI tract and do not typically contribute to upper GI bleeding, further distinguishing peptic ulcer disease as the primary cause in upper GI