What Is Hematemesis?

Hematemesis is the vomiting of blood originating from the stomach or upper digestive system. It usually occurs as a result of bleeding in the stomach, esophagus, or duodenum. The vomit may appear bright red or have a coffee-ground appearance. This indicates that the digested blood has interacted with stomach acid.

Hematemesis may occur when blood is visibly mixed with vomit or when the vomit consists entirely of blood. Additionally, after vomiting, a metallic taste or the smell of blood may be present in the mouth. Other symptoms may include nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and fatigue. If hematemesis occurs due to swallowing blood from the mouth rather than vomiting blood from the stomach or intestines, blood may also be seen in the stool.

Although hematemesis is a symptom on its own, it usually appears along with the following signs:

• Bloody or brown vomit
• Dizziness and fainting sensation
• Paleness and fatigue due to blood loss
• Shortness of breath and palpitations
• Black, tar-colored stool (melena)

Hematemesis can occur due to many different causes. The most common causes include stomach or intestinal ulcers, stomach or intestinal cancer, esophageal injuries, liver diseases, blood clotting disorders, and the use of aspirin or other blood-thinning medications. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption, the overuse of aspirin or other painkillers, stomach or intestinal infections, and intestinal obstructions may also lead to hematemesis.

Hematemesis can appear as a symptom of various diseases. Common causes include:

• Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers: Wounds in the stomach or duodenum can lead to bleeding.
• Esophageal Varices: The enlargement and rupture of veins in the esophagus due to liver disease can cause severe bleeding.
• Gastritis and Erosive Conditions: Inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining can result in bleeding.
• Mallory-Weiss Syndrome: Tears in the esophagus caused by severe vomiting or retching can lead to hematemesis.
• Cancer: Tumors developing in the stomach, esophagus, or upper digestive tract can cause bleeding.

Since hematemesis is a serious medical condition, it requires urgent medical attention. The following methods may be used for diagnosis:

• Endoscopy: Used to examine the upper digestive system and identify the source of bleeding.
• Blood Tests: Performed to determine whether hemoglobin levels have decreased.
• CT or MRI Imaging: May be used in severe cases to locate the source of bleeding.

Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause. Bleeding can be stopped through endoscopic interventions, medication therapy can be applied, or surgical procedures may be performed if necessary.

If you experience symptoms such as sudden vomiting of blood or severe dizziness, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

The treatment of hematemesis depends on identifying the underlying cause. If hematemesis is a sign of a serious medical condition, immediate medical care should be sought. Your doctor will recommend appropriate treatments to stop the bleeding and address the root cause. These treatments may include medications, surgical interventions, and other medical procedures. Additionally, the use of medications causing hematemesis should be discontinued, and alcohol consumption should be limited.

In some cases, hematemesis can be prevented. For example, when using aspirin or other blood-thinning medications, they should be taken only in the dosage recommended by your doctor to reduce the risk of bleeding. In addition, limiting alcohol consumption and maintaining good hygiene to prevent stomach or intestinal infections can also lower the risk of hematemesis. If you have a serious medical condition such as a stomach or intestinal ulcer or cancer, following your doctor’s recommended treatment plan can further help reduce the risk of hematemesis.