A symptom of a disorder in the digestive tract. Also known as hematemesis, vomiting blood can result from excessive vomiting or from excessive consumption of alcohol. It can also be a sign of potentially life-threatening internal bleeding, so it should not be ignored. Blood in vomit can be red or, when digested by the stomach, it can resemble coffee grounds. An individual who vomits blood should call a doctor. If other symptoms, such as chills, sweating, weakness, or dizziness, are present, immediate medical attention is required.
Vomiting blood is a sign of internal bleeding within the digestive system. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a tear in the lower esophagus, bleeding from enlarged veins in the esophagus known as esophageal varices, inflammation of the stomach lining called erosive gastritis, a peptic ulcer, or in rare cases, stomach cancer. Blood can also be vomited if it has been swallowed during a nosebleed.
The blood that is vomited may vary in color, appearing as dark red, brown, black, or resembling coffee grounds. This symptom is often accompanied by the excretion of black, tarry stools.
The origin of vomiting blood is usually explored through oesophageal and stomach endoscopy or barium X-ray tests. In cases of severe blood loss, a blood transfusion and potentially surgery to halt the bleeding may be necessary.