Hematemesis, vomiting blood: what is this, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Vomiting blood; Hematemesis; Blood in the vomit

What is vomiting blood?

Vomiting blood, also known as hematemesis, is a disease, characterized by the involuntary discharge of blood from the mouth or nose. It can be caused by various conditions, such as ulcers, bleeding disorders and trauma.

Vomiting blood is a potentially dangerous symptom and may be a sign of internal bleeding or other conditions., therefore it is important to seek medical attention, if it happens.

Causes of vomiting blood

There are several possible causes of vomiting blood., and the underlying cause determines the best treatment. Some of the most common reasons include:

• • Ulcers: ulcers can cause bleeding in the stomach or intestines, which may be accompanied by vomiting.
• • Blood clotting disorders: some bleeding disorders can affect the blood vessels in the digestive system and cause blood to vomit.
• • Gastrointestinal infections: such infections, like salmonella, shigella and E. coli, can cause bleeding in the stomach or intestines and lead to vomiting of blood.
• • Trauma: trauma to the stomach or head can cause bleeding in the digestive system and lead to vomiting of blood.
• • Certain medicines. Taking certain medications, such as aspirin and warfarin, can cause bleeding in the digestive system and lead to vomiting of blood.

Symptoms of vomiting blood

The most common symptom of vomiting blood is visible blood in the vomit.. Color can vary from bright red to dark black. Other symptoms may include:

• • Nausea
• • Discomfort in the stomach
• • Uncontrollable vomiting
• • Dizziness
• • Loss of appetite
• • Weakness
• • Sweating

When to contact a healthcare professional

Vomiting blood is a potentially serious symptom and the patient should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible.. It is especially important to seek medical attention, if you experience any of the following:

• • A large amount of blood in the vomit
• • Severe abdominal pain
• • Bloody stool
• • Unexplained weight loss
• • Vomiting more 24 hours

Diagnosis of vomiting with blood

Vomiting blood is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and laboratory tests.. Your doctor may order these tests, like a complete blood count, endoscopy or abdominal ultrasound, to diagnose the cause of the bleeding.

Treatment of vomiting blood

Treatment for vomiting blood will depend on the underlying cause..

Treatment often includes medication to stop bleeding and prevent further complications.. If vomiting is caused by a bleeding disorder, the doctor may recommend a blood transfusion.

If a bleeding ulcer causes vomiting, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair the ulcer.

Home treatment for vomiting blood

If you vomit blood, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous exercise, until the cause of the bleeding is determined. You should also avoid taking any medication, unless prescribed by a doctor.

Prevention of vomiting blood

Vomiting blood can be prevented, controlling basic states, such as ulcers, bleeding disorders and gastrointestinal infections. It is also important to avoid medication, which may increase the risk of bleeding in the stomach and intestines. Finally, it is important to practice good hygiene and avoid unhygienic food and water, as it may increase the risk of infection.

Used sources and literature

Kovacs TO, Jensen DM. Gastrointestinal hemorrhage. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 126.

Meguerdichian DA, Goralnick E. Gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 27.

Savides TJ, Jensen DM. Gastrointestinal bleeding. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 20.