Vomiting Blood - Causes, Symptoms, Treatment
Know about vomiting blood, what it means, common causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options. Learn how to prevent vomiting with blood.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 4th Sep, 2025
Introduction
Vomiting blood, medically known as hematemesis, can be a frightening experience. If you or someone you know has vomited blood, it’s important to understand what might be causing it and when to seek medical help. This article will guide you through the possible causes, symptoms, and treatment options in a simple and supportive way.
What Does Vomiting Blood Mean?
Vomiting blood means that there is bleeding somewhere in your digestive tract, either in the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach, or upper part of the small intestine.
The blood may appear:
- Bright red (fresh bleeding)
- Dark brown or black (resembling coffee grounds, which means the blood has been partially digested)
This condition should never be ignored, as it can indicate a serious medical issue.
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Common Causes of Vomiting Blood
Several conditions can lead to vomiting blood. Some of the most common include:
1. Peptic Ulcers
- Sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or small intestine.
- Often caused by H. pylori infection or long-term use of painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen.
2. Gastritis (Stomach Inflammation)
- Irritation or swelling of the stomach lining due to excessive alcohol, spicy foods, or infections.
3. Oesophageal Varices
- Swollen veins in the oesophagus, commonly seen in people with liver disease.
- These veins can burst and cause severe bleeding.
4. Severe Acid Reflux (GERD)
- Chronic acid reflux can damage the oesophagus, leading to bleeding.
5. Tears in the Oesophagus (Mallory-Weiss Tear)
- Often caused by violent coughing or vomiting (common in alcoholics).
6. Swallowing Blood
- Sometimes, nosebleeds or throat injuries can lead to swallowing blood, which is later vomited.
7. Stomach or Oesophageal Cancer
- Though less common, persistent vomiting of blood may indicate cancer.
Symptoms to Watch For
Vomiting blood is itself a symptom, but it may be accompanied by:
- Dizziness or fainting (sign of significant blood loss)
- Black, tarry stools (indicating digested blood)
- Severe stomach pain
- Rapid heartbeat or low blood pressure
- Pale skin or weakness
If you experience any of these along with vomiting blood, seek emergency medical care immediately.
When to See a Doctor
Vomiting blood is a medical emergency if:
- The blood is bright red or in large amounts.
- You feel lightheaded, dizzy, or confused.
- You have severe stomach pain.
- You also have black, tarry stools.
Even if the bleeding seems minor, it’s best to consult a doctor to rule out serious conditions.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Doctors may perform tests to determine the cause, such as:
- Endoscopy (a camera inserted into the stomach to check for ulcers or tears)
- Blood tests (to check for anaemia or infection)
- Imaging tests (like X-rays or CT scans)
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause:
- Medications (for ulcers, infections, or acid reflux)
- Blood transfusion (if blood loss is severe)
- Surgery (in rare cases, like bleeding tumours)
- Lifestyle changes (avoiding alcohol, spicy foods, or NSAIDs)
How to Prevent Vomiting Blood?
While some causes (like cancer) can’t always be prevented, you can reduce the risk by:
- Avoiding excessive alcohol
- Limiting NSAIDs (painkillers like ibuprofen)
- Managing acid reflux with diet and medication
- Treating infections (like H. pylori) early
- Eating a balanced diet and avoiding overly spicy foods
Final Thoughts
Vomiting blood is a serious symptom that requires immediate attention. While it can be caused by minor issues like gastritis, it may also indicate life-threatening conditions. If you or a loved one experiences this, seek medical help right away.
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
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Dr. Avinash Pasuparthy
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS
Visakhapatnam
Apollo Clinic Vizag, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Pankaj Tripathi
General Practitioner
20 Years • MBBS, MD Pathology
Lucknow
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18 Years • MBBS PGCDM
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