blood in vomit medical term

3 min read 08-03-2025

Meta Description: Experiencing blood in your vomit (hematemesis)? This comprehensive guide explains the medical term, causes (from ulcers to esophageal varices), symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Learn when to seek immediate medical attention for this serious condition. Don't ignore the signs – understanding hematemesis could save your life.

What is Hematemesis?

The medical term for blood in vomit is hematemesis. It's a symptom, not a diagnosis in itself, indicating bleeding somewhere in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This area includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The appearance of the blood can vary, offering clues to the source and severity of the bleeding.

Causes of Hematemesis: A Detailed Look

Several conditions can lead to hematemesis. Understanding the potential causes is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Common Causes:

Peptic Ulcers: These sores in the stomach lining or duodenum are a frequent cause of hematemesis. Ulcers can bleed, resulting in vomiting of bright red blood or dark, coffee-ground-like material.
Esophageal Varices: These are swollen veins in the esophagus, often caused by liver disease (like cirrhosis). They can rupture and bleed heavily, leading to significant hematemesis. This is a medical emergency.
Mallory-Weiss Tear: This is a tear in the lining of the esophagus, often caused by forceful vomiting. It can cause bleeding, resulting in hematemesis.
Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause bleeding and lead to hematemesis.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): While not always directly causing bleeding, severe, long-standing GERD can damage the esophageal lining and potentially lead to bleeding.

Less Common Causes:

Cancer: Stomach or esophageal cancers can cause bleeding.
Medication Side Effects: Certain medications can irritate the GI tract and cause bleeding.
Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, often caused by infection or irritants.

Recognizing the Symptoms: More Than Just Blood

While the presence of blood in vomit is the defining characteristic of hematemesis, other symptoms can accompany it. These include:

Abdominal Pain: This can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.
Weakness or Dizziness: Significant blood loss can cause these symptoms.
Lightheadedness: Another indication of blood loss.
Black, Tarry Stools (Melena): If the bleeding is slow, the blood may be digested before it reaches the vomit, resulting in dark stools.
Shock (in severe cases): This is a life-threatening complication.

Diagnosing the Source of the Bleeding

Diagnosing the cause of hematemesis requires a thorough evaluation. Your doctor will likely perform several tests:

Physical Examination: Assessing your overall health and checking for signs of shock.
Blood Tests: To check your blood count and identify any clotting problems.
Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera to visualize the upper GI tract. It allows for direct visualization of the bleeding source and often allows for treatment at the same time.
Upper GI Series (Barium Swallow): This uses X-rays to visualize the upper GI tract.

Treatment Options: Addressing the Root Cause

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the bleeding. Options include:

Medication: To reduce acid production (for ulcers), manage blood pressure (for varices), or stop bleeding.
Endoscopic Procedures: These can stop bleeding by injecting medication, applying heat, or banding varices.
Surgery: May be necessary in severe cases to repair tears, remove tumors, or treat other complications.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Hematemesis is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

Large amounts of blood in your vomit.
Signs of shock (weak pulse, low blood pressure, dizziness).
Severe abdominal pain.
Persistent vomiting.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition. The information provided here does not cover all possible causes, symptoms, or treatments. Self-treating can be dangerous.