Vomiting blood is a serious symptom (hematemesis) and typically signals bleeding somewhere in the upper digestive tract or, less commonly, swallowed blood from another source. It requires prompt medical evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Key points to understand
- What it means: Active or recent bleeding in the esophagus, stomach, or upper small intestine is the most common cause. In some cases, blood in the vomit comes from swallowed blood (e.g., from a nosebleed or mouth injury), but true hematemesis suggests an internal source that needs assessment. Bright red blood usually points to a more active, heavier bleed, while darker, coffee-ground appearing vomit suggests older blood or slower bleeding. The exact appearance can help clinicians gauge urgency, but any amount of blood in vomit warrants medical attention [medical sources typical of guidelines and patient information].
- Possible underlying causes: Includes ulcers, gastritis, esophagitis, esophageal varices (often linked to liver disease), gastritis or ulcers from NSAIDs or infections, Mallory-Weiss tears from forceful vomiting, stomach or esophageal cancers, and, less commonly, pancreatitis or other systemic conditions. Sometimes vomiting blood occurs after swallowing blood from a nosebleed or dental source, which does not necessarily indicate a GI tract problem [typical clinical considerations and differential diagnoses].
- When to seek urgent care: If you are vomiting bright red blood, vomiting large quantities, feeling faint or dizzy, show signs of shock (rapid pulse, pale, clammy skin), have severe abdominal pain, or have a history of liver disease with potential variceal bleeding. In such cases, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department. If the vomiting is mild and you’re able to stay hydrated but the symptom persists or recurs, arrange prompt medical evaluation as an outpatient as soon as possible [emergency/urgent care guidance from standard clinical guidance].
- What to expect in evaluation: Medical teams will take a history, perform a physical exam, and order tests such as blood work to assess anemia and clotting status, and imaging or an endoscopic procedure (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) to locate the source of bleeding and treat it if possible. The management depends on the cause and the severity of bleeding [typical diagnostic and treatment pathways].
- Self-care while awaiting care: Do not take NSAIDs or alcohol, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity that could worsen bleeding, stay hydrated with small sips if tolerated, and seek immediate care if symptoms worsen or new warning signs appear (dizziness, fainting, severe abdominal pain). Do not attempt self-diagnosis or home remedies for a bleeding GI condition [general safety guidance].
If you or someone else is experiencing this now, especially with heavy bleeding or signs of instability, seek emergency medical care immediately. For non-emergent concerns, schedule an urgent appointment with a clinician to determine the cause and appropriate treatment plan. If you’d like, describe any other symptoms (abdominal pain, black stools, vomiting duration, medication history, liver disease history) and I can help outline what to discuss with a healthcare provider.
