Vomiting blood

Vomiting blood, or hematemesis, is a situation where a person vomits blood that can appear as bright red streaks mixed with food or other stomach fluids. There can be many blood vomiting reasons, and sometimes it can even be life-threatening.

What is Hematemesis (vomiting blood)?

Hematemesis refers to the act of expelling blood through vomiting. This blood can be either mixed with stomach contents or present on its own, exhibiting variations in color from fresh and bright red to older and darker, resembling coagulated coffee grounds. Hematemesis serves as a clear indicator of internal bleeding originating from the upper segment of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, and the initial part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. If you experience vomiting of blood, it is imperative to promptly seek immediate medical attention due to its potential seriousness and the underlying causes that require evaluation and treatment.

Is vomiting blood a serious condition?

Vomiting blood may not always indicate a serious problem. In some cases, there may be a small amount of blood in the vomit due to swallowing blood from a nosebleed. In such cases, there is unlikely to be any long-term harm. Sometimes vomiting blood can be a symptom of an underlying health problem, such as organ rupture or internal bleeding. If you have noticed blood in vomit, consult our doctors at CARE Hospitals today. 

Causes of vomiting blood

There can be many causes of vomiting blood, some of which may or may not be serious. These causes can include internal injuries, certain medications, or even illnesses.

Some of the common causes of vomiting blood include:

• Gastritis
• Severe gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Bleeding ulcer
• Swallowing blood from a nosebleed
• Excessive coughing or vomiting causes a tear in the oesophagus

There may be other causes of vomiting blood that can indicate a serious medical problem. These can include:

• Esophageal varices
• Hepatitis due to alcohol abuse
• Anaemia
• Fatty liver disease
• Cirrhosis
• Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Hemophilia
• Esophageal or stomach cancer
• Symptoms of Vomiting Blood

The colour of vomited blood may vary depending on its source. It can appear as:

• Bright red blood
• Food mixed with blood
• Brown blood resembling coffee grounds

Bright red blood vomited may indicate an acute case of bleeding in the oesophagus or stomach. This colour usually suggests a fast-bleeding source within the gastrointestinal tract.

A darker colour of blood may indicate a slower release of blood, which can then mix with food and be regurgitated later.

Diagnosis of vomiting blood

The diagnosis of vomiting blood begins with the doctor inquiring about the patient's medical history and recent history of injuries that may have caused internal trauma. The doctor may then perform an endoscopy to examine the gastrointestinal tract.

A complete blood count may also be recommended. If the doctor suspects other underlying causes for vomiting blood, they may suggest additional tests, which can include:

• CT scan
• X-ray
• Ultrasound
• MRI scan
• PET scan

In some cases, a biopsy may be performed on a specific area to confirm the cause and source of the blood in the vomit.

When to see a Doctor?

If bloody vomit occurs after experiencing trauma or injury, immediate medical attention may be required. Even if it happens suddenly without any instances of nosebleeds, excessive coughing, or vomiting, seeking medical advice can help resolve the issue. It is important to visit a doctor if there are accompanying symptoms along with vomiting blood, such as:

• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe abdominal pain
• Severe chest pain

Complications of Vomiting Blood

Vomiting blood can lead to complications if the cause and source of the blood are serious. Excessive blood loss through vomiting can result in anaemia. This can occur over a prolonged period of time and may remain asymptomatic for a while.

Additionally, vomiting blood can potentially lead to shock, which requires immediate medical attention.

Treatment for vomiting blood

If the patient has experienced significant blood loss due to vomiting, a blood transfusion may be administered as the initial treatment. Depending on the cause of hematemesis, the doctor may prescribe medicines to reduce vomiting. If vomiting blood is caused by laceration or injury in the upper gastrointestinal tract, medications may be recommended to effectively treat the problem. In cases of severe gastrointestinal issues, the doctor may refer the patient to a gastroenterologist. Surgery may also be recommended for serious internal injuries or perforations.

Can hematemesis be cured?

In cases of active internal bleeding, healthcare professionals have multiple methods to halt the bleeding, which is their primary priority when you're experiencing hematemesis. However, if the bleeding is linked to a persistent medical condition, resolving it can be more challenging. Recurrent instances of hematemesis may occur if the underlying issue is not effectively addressed and treated.

Conclusion

Vomiting blood can be caused by an underlying health condition or sometimes may not be indicative of a serious problem. To avoid confusion or undue concern, it is important to consult a doctor and receive appropriate treatment for hematemesis.

FAQs

1. Is a little blood in vomit normal? 

A small amount of blood in vomit may be considered normal if it is a result of a previous nosebleed. However, it should not be taken lightly if there is no history of nosebleeds.

2. What does blood in vomit mean during pregnancy? 

Experiencing vomiting during pregnancy is normal, but vomiting blood is not. If you are experiencing bloody vomiting, consult a doctor immediately. 

3. What are the prevention methods for vomiting blood? 

Vomiting blood may not be preventable if it is a result of internal damage. However, it is advisable to avoid activities that may cause trauma or injury to the body, especially the internal organs. Limiting alcohol intake may also help prevent vomiting blood.