What is Hematemesis

Hematemesis is when you vomit blood. It is a sign of bleeding in the upper GI tract (gastrointestinal tract). The upper GI tract includes the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, and the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum). Hematemesis is usually caused by bleeding in the esophagus or stomach.

You may suddenly vomit bright red blood. Or, the blood may look like coffee grounds. You may also have other symptoms, such as:

• Stomach pain.
• Heartburn.
• Stool (feces) that looks black and tarry.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
• Do not take NSAIDs, including aspirin and ibuprofen, unless your health care provider approves. These medicines can increase bleeding.
• Rest as needed.
• Drink enough fluids to keep your urine pale yellow. Take small sips of fluid at a time.
• Do not drink alcohol.
• Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You have more blood in your vomit.
• Your vomiting of blood begins again after it has stopped.
• You have persistent stomach pain.
• You have nausea, indigestion, or heartburn.

Get help right away if:

• You faint.
• You feel weak or dizzy.
• You are urinating less than normal or not at all.
• You vomit up:
  • Large amounts of blood or dark material that may look like coffee grounds.
  • Bright red blood.
• You have any of the following:
  • Persistent vomiting.
  • A rapid heartbeat.
  • Blood in your stool.
  • Chest pain.
  • Difficulty breathing.

These symptoms may represent a serious problem that is an emergency. Do not wait to see if the symptoms will go away. Get medical help right away. Call your local emergency services (911 in the United States). Do not drive yourself to the hospital.

Summary

• Hematemesis is when you vomit blood. It is a sign of bleeding in the upper GI tract (gastrointestinal tract).
• Hematemesis is usually caused by bleeding in the esophagus or stomach.
• Do not take NSAIDs (including aspirin and ibuprofen), drink alcohol, or use tobacco products.
• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.