Hämatemesis

Hematemesis is the medical term for vomiting blood. It can range in appearance from bright red blood to dark brown or black, often described as resembling coffee grounds. The color and texture depend on how long the blood has been in the stomach and how much acid it has been exposed to. Hematemesis is a symptom, not a disease itself, and indicates bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, typically from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum.

The causes of hematemesis are varied and can include conditions such as peptic ulcers, gastritis, esophageal varices (enlarged veins in the esophagus, often associated with liver disease), Mallory-Weiss tears (tears in the lining of the esophagus caused by forceful vomiting), and in some cases, cancer. Less common causes can include foreign body ingestion or certain medications.

Diagnosis of hematemesis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and often further investigations. These may include blood tests to assess for anemia and clotting function, as well as imaging studies like endoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Treatment is directed at the underlying cause of the bleeding and may involve medications to reduce stomach acid, endoscopic procedures to stop bleeding, or in severe cases, surgery. Significant blood loss can lead to hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention.