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Overview of Vomiting Blood: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Team AckoDec 30, 2024

Vomiting blood, medically known as haematemesis, can be a distressing and alarming symptom. It often indicates an underlying medical issue that requires immediate attention. While the sight of blood in vomit may trigger concern, understanding its causes and associated symptoms is key to addressing the problem effectively.

From minor conditions like stomach irritation to severe issues such as gastrointestinal bleeding, vomiting blood can have a wide range of causes. In this blog, we’ll explore the meaning of haematemesis, its common symptoms, potential causes, and the treatment options available, empowering you with the knowledge to take timely action if you or a loved one experiences this condition.

vomiting-blood

Contents

What is Haematemesis?

Haematemesis is the medical term for vomiting blood. It often indicates bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as from the stomach, oesophagus, or duodenum. The blood may appear bright red or have a coffee-ground appearance due to the partial digestion by stomach acids. Common causes of haematemesis include peptic ulcers, oesophagal varices, gastritis, and severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Immediate medical attention is crucial to identify the underlying cause and prevent significant blood loss.

What Does Blood in Vomit Look Like?

Haematemesis can present as vomiting of fresh blood, which appears bright red and is indicative of ongoing, active bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract. Other times, it can present as dark, reddish brown, clumped-up vomitus, or coffee ground vomitus. This occurs when bleeding occurs in the upper GI tract, and the blood mixes with the gastric acid, which oxidises it, causing it to become darker and resemble ground coffee.

Causes of Vomiting Blood

Here are the leading causes of Vomiting Blood.

1. Ulcers

If you experience constant heartburn, frequently get acidity, and feel nauseous or bloated, you may have a gastric ulcer. These can also cause vomiting. An ulcer is a wound because the surface layers of the structure get eroded and destroyed, exposing the underlying structures. Ulcers can occur in the stomach (gastric ulcer) and in the first part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcers). There are many causes for these ulcers, including the following:

H. Pylori Infection: Helicobacter pylori causes infection and peptic ulcer disease.
Overuse of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs(NSAIDs): This is especially for those people who have a habit of taking painkillers daily for several years. Examples include ibuprofen, indomethacin, diclofenac, naproxen, etc.
Stress: Unmanageable stress can cause such a situation.
Zollinger Ellison Syndrome: A rare condition involving acid-producing tumours of the stomach.

The ulcer can cause bleeding either because it directly erodes into a blood vessel or because continuous retching or vomiting can damage the lining of the oesophagus. An untreated ulcer can cause severe blood vomiting to such an extent that it can be life-threatening. It can also perforate and spill acid and blood into the entire abdominal cavity, causing severe harm to life.

2. Liver Disease

Many conditions can cause liver failure, such as chronic alcoholism, hepatitis B & C infections, autoimmune conditions, etc. Liver failure results in a condition called portal hypertension, where the blood pressure inside the vessels supplying the liver becomes very high. This causes an increase in pressure in the backflow.

As these portal vessels join vessels in the oesophagus and stomach, these vessels in the GI tract can rupture due to high pressure and cause profuse blood vomiting. This is an emergency and life-threatening condition.

3. Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine, or oesophagus. If left untreated, they can cause significant bleeding, leading to blood in the vomit. These ulcers are often caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

4. Esophageal Varices

Esophageal varices are swollen veins in the lower part of the oesophagus, often resulting from severe liver disease (cirrhosis). These veins can rupture and bleed heavily, causing vomiting of large amounts of blood. This condition requires urgent medical attention to prevent life-threatening complications.

5. Inflammation of Different Parts of the Upper GI Tract

Inflammation of various parts of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as the oesophagus (oesophagitis), stomach (gastritis), or duodenum (duodenitis), can lead to bleeding. This inflammation can be caused by infections, medications, alcohol, or other irritants, and when severe, it can result in vomiting blood.

6. Mallory-Weiss Syndrome

A Mallory-Weiss tear is a laceration in the mucous membrane where the oesophagus meets the stomach, usually caused by severe and prolonged vomiting or retching. This tear can lead to significant bleeding and blood vomiting. Risk factors include excessive alcohol consumption and eating disorders.

7. Gastritis

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by infection, excessive alcohol consumption, or prolonged use of NSAIDs. It can lead to bleeding and blood vomiting if the inflammation is severe.

8. Bleeding Disorders

The body has many mechanisms for preventing inappropriate bleeding and clotting. Sometimes, these mechanisms fail, resulting in sudden spontaneous bleeding from any part of the body. This can present as blood vomiting, especially in infants and children. Additionally, a deficiency of Vitamin K, which is essential for the production of these clotting factors, can also cause bleeding.

Note: Minor bleeding after dental procedures or a nosebleed may result in the swallowing of some blood. If you vomit blood after that, it may be expected. Make sure to disclose any such history to your doctor.

What to do When Faced With an Episode of Vomiting Blood?

When faced with an episode of vomiting blood, it is crucial to take immediate and appropriate actions to ensure safety and seek medical attention. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Stay Calm

Try to remain as calm as possible. Panicking can increase stress and exacerbate the situation. Taking deep breaths and staying composed can help you manage the situation more effectively.

2. Sit or Lie Down

Position yourself to minimise the risk of choking. Sitting up or lying on your side is recommended to prevent inhaling blood into your lungs. This position helps keep the airway clear and reduces the risk of aspiration.

3. Avoid Food and Drink

Do not eat or drink anything, as this could exacerbate the bleeding or cause choking. Keeping the stomach empty is important until a medical evaluation is performed. Ingesting food or liquids might interfere with the diagnosis and treatment.

4. Seek Immediate Medical Help

Contact emergency medical services or go to the nearest hospital. Vomiting blood is a serious symptom that requires prompt medical attention to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment. Do not delay seeking professional help, as timely intervention is crucial.

5. Keep a Record

If possible, take note of the amount and colour of the vomited blood, any accompanying symptoms (such as dizziness or abdominal pain), and any recent activities or medications. This information can be very helpful for healthcare providers in diagnosing the cause of the bleeding.

6. Avoid Aspirin or NSAIDs

Refrain from taking aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as they can worsen bleeding. These medications can interfere with blood clotting and exacerbate the situation. Follow medical advice for appropriate pain management instead.

What is the Treatment for Vomiting Blood?

When faced with vomiting blood, immediate medical intervention is crucial. Below are the key steps in the treatment process:

1. Stabilisation

The first priority is to stabilise the patient. This includes addressing any immediate life-threatening conditions, such as low blood pressure or breathing difficulties resulting from excessive blood loss. Intravenous (IV) fluids are administered to maintain blood pressure and adequate hydration. Oxygen therapy might be provided to ensure that vital organs receive enough oxygen.

2. Blood Transfusion

If there is significant blood loss, a blood transfusion may be necessary. This involves administering donated blood to replace the lost blood volume. Transfusions help restore adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, preventing complications like shock and organ failure.

3. Medication

Various medications are used to control bleeding and treat the underlying cause. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid production, which aids in healing ulcers. Other medications might include antifibrinolytics to promote blood clotting and antibiotics if an infection is present.

4. Endoscopy

An endoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure. A flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to visualise the upper gastrointestinal tract. The source of bleeding is identified, and treatments such as cauterisation (burning the bleeding vessel), clipping, or banding of varices can be performed to stop the bleeding.

5. Surgery

In cases where endoscopic treatment is insufficient or the bleeding is severe, surgery may be required. Surgical interventions aim to repair the source of bleeding, such as resecting a bleeding ulcer or performing a bypass procedure. Surgery is usually considered a last resort when other treatments have failed or when the situation is critical.

Conclusion

Vomiting blood, or haematemesis, is a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention. It can be a symptom of underlying issues such as gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or liver disease. Recognising the symptoms early and seeking timely medical care is crucial for effective treatment and management.

Depending on the cause, treatments can range from medication to surgery to address the root problem. If you experience vomiting blood, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and care. Early intervention can help prevent complications and safeguard your health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here’s a list of common questions related to Vomiting Blood.

How can I know if I am Vomiting Blood?

As blood in the vomit may not always be bright red, it can be a little confusing to understand. However, if you experience any severe pain while vomiting, frequent vomiting, or retching, it is best to consult a doctor at the earliest.

Can forcing yourself to vomit cause bleeding?

Disorders in which patients induce vomiting using their fingers or any other object are a common cause of vomiting of blood and could indicate an injury to the gut. A psychologist or psychiatrist can help treat such disorders.

I have been drinking alcohol for several years. However, yesterday I saw blood in my vomit for the first time. What could be the reason?

Chronic alcoholism causes liver damage that can gradually affect the blood vessels as well. In cases of frequent drinking, it is recommended always to eat first, avoid smoking at the same time, and avoid drinking altogether while on medication.

How long does recovery take after vomiting blood?

Recovery time varies based on the severity of the bleeding and the cause. Mild cases may recover in a few days, while severe bleeding may require extended hospital stays and follow-up care for full recovery.

Should I wait before seeing a doctor if I vomit blood only once?

Even if vomiting blood occurs only once, seeking medical attention immediately is essential. Vomiting blood can be a sign of a severe underlying condition that requires prompt treatment. Delaying care may worsen the condition, so it's always best to consult a healthcare professional right away.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. Please consult a doctor before making any health-related decisions.