Hematemesis – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for Vomiting Blood

Hematemesis is the vomiting of blood and occurs as a result of bleeding in the upper digestive tract. It can be fresh, bright red blood or dark-colored content resembling “coffee grounds,” which indicates digestive bleeding that has already been partially digested by gastric juices.

In this article, we explain in detail what hematemesis is, its common causes and symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options available for each case.

What is hematemesis and how does it manifest?

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Hematemesis is defined as the expulsion of blood from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum, meaning the upper digestive tract, through vomiting. The term comes from the Greek words “haima” (blood) and “emein” (to vomit), accurately describing the nature of this alarming symptom.

The appearance of the vomit varies depending on the location and severity of the bleeding: bright red blood indicates active bleeding, usually located in the esophagus or stomach, while dark brown vomit, resembling “coffee grounds,” suggests older, partially digested bleeding, occurring deeper in the digestive tract.

Hematemesis can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, cold sweats, dizziness, or even fainting. In any situation, vomiting blood is a medical emergency that can conceal severe internal bleeding, with an increased risk of hypovolemic shock. For this reason, it is essential to observe the appearance of the vomit and communicate it to the doctor immediately—these details can quickly guide the correct investigations and treatment.

Natural Supplements

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Main causes of hematemesis: gastric bleeding, alcohol, and other sources of vomiting blood

Hematemesis is most often caused by bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract—esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. This bleeding can result from common conditions such as:

• Acute or chronic gastritis – inflammation of the gastric lining can lead to vascular erosions and bleeding;
• Gastric or duodenal ulcer – deep lesions can affect blood vessels and cause blood loss in the digestive tract;
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – acid reflux can damage the esophagus, leading to bleeding;
• Esophageal lesions – such as Mallory-Weiss syndrome, caused by violent vomiting.

A major aggravating factor is chronic or excessive alcohol consumption, especially on an empty stomach. It promotes the development of hemorrhagic gastritis or esophagogastric tears, frequently leading to alcohol-induced vomiting of blood. In Mallory-Weiss syndrome, tears occur at the junction between the esophagus and stomach, often after episodes of repeated vomiting.

Other important causes include:

• Frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, which can affect the integrity of the gastric lining;
• Liver diseases, especially cirrhosis, which leads to the formation of esophageal varices prone to rupture;
• Coagulation disorders (e.g., hemophilia) or the use of anticoagulants, which increase the risk of digestive bleeding;
• Esophageal or gastric cancer, which can bleed chronically or acutely;
• Abdominal trauma or recent surgery in the digestive tract area;
• Invasive medical procedures, such as endoscopies, which can irritate or damage the lining of the upper digestive tract.

In rarer cases, the blood in the vomit may come from swallowing blood (e.g., epistaxis, gum bleeding), but these situations must be differentiated from actual digestive bleeding.

Symptoms associated with vomiting blood and warning signs

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Hematemesis does not occur in isolation but is often accompanied by other clinical manifestations that provide important clues about the location and severity of the digestive bleeding. One of the most common signs is the appearance of the vomit:

• Bright red blood indicates recent, active bleeding, usually located in the esophagus or stomach;
• Coffee-ground-like vomit—a dark brown, granular liquid—signals that the blood has been partially digested, suggesting slow or long-standing bleeding, particularly from the stomach or duodenum.

Another important manifestation is melena, which is black, shiny stool with an intense odor, caused by the presence of digested blood in the feces. This sign indicates persistent bleeding in the upper digestive tract and requires immediate medical consultation.

In addition to these visible signs, hematemesis can be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as:

• pronounced pallor;
• dizziness, vertigo, or general weakness;
• cold sweats;
• tachycardia (rapid and weak pulse);
• difficulty breathing;
• confusion or loss of consciousness.

These manifestations are the result of a sudden decrease in circulating blood volume and can lead to hemorrhagic shock, a severe complication requiring emergency medical treatment.

Diagnosing hematemesis

Before performing investigations, the doctor will start with a detailed medical history, asking questions about the symptoms presented: when they occurred, the frequency of episodes, the appearance of the vomit (fresh blood or “coffee grounds”), and about any pre-existing conditions. It is also imperative to mention if you are taking any medications—especially anti-inflammatories or anticoagulants— and if you consume alcohol frequently.

To establish the exact cause of hematemesis, the doctor may recommend the following investigations:

• Blood tests – useful for evaluating hemoglobin levels (identifying possible anemia), coagulation capacity, and other essential parameters;
• Fecal occult blood test – performed on stool, to detect traces of digested blood;
• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy – this is the primary investigation for diagnosing hematemesis. A flexible tube with a video camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth into the stomach to examine the lining of the upper digestive tract. During the procedure, the doctor can perform biopsies or hemostatic interventions;
• Medical imaging – such as abdominal ultrasound, chest X-ray, or computed tomography (CT), are useful in cases where endoscopy cannot identify the source of bleeding or if other causes are suspected (tumors, lesions, or obstructions).

Treatment options for hematemesis

The treatment for hematemesis depends on the cause, severity of bleeding, and the patient’s general condition. In severe cases, vital functions are stabilized by administering intravenous fluids and, if necessary, blood transfusions.

If bleeding is caused by a gastric or duodenal ulcer, medications that reduce gastric acidity, such as proton pump inhibitors, are administered to aid in the healing of the lining. In the case of esophageal varices, treatment may include medications that lower venous pressure or endoscopic procedures for variceal ligation.

Gastrointestinal endoscopy is used for both diagnosis and treatment. The doctor can use various techniques to stop bleeding, such as injecting hemostatic agents, cauterizing, or placing clips on affected vessels. If these methods are not effective or if bleeding is massive, surgery may be necessary.

Treatment is personalized, and close monitoring in the hospital is essential to prevent recurrence and complications. Do not attempt to treat vomiting blood at home and consult a doctor immediately, as any delay can worsen the situation.

Preventing hematemesis and associated complications

The prevention of hematemesis is based on reducing risk factors and protecting the digestive lining. A balanced lifestyle, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking are essential measures for maintaining the integrity of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

If long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen or aspirin) is necessary, concurrent use of gastric protective medications is recommended to prevent irritation of the stomach lining.

Individuals with liver diseases, especially cirrhosis, should be monitored periodically for early detection of esophageal varices, which can bleed profusely. Preventive treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection, a bacterium responsible for many cases of gastric and duodenal ulcers, significantly reduces the risk of hematemesis.

A diet rich in fiber, low in irritating foods (such as very spicy or fatty foods), and adherence to meal schedules help maintain digestive lining health. It is also recommended to avoid self-medication and to consult a doctor if any persistent digestive disorder occurs.

For individuals with known risk factors, regular medical check-ups can help in the early detection of digestive lesions and the prevention of severe complications.

In conclusion, hematemesis is an alarming symptom that requires prompt and thorough medical evaluation. Rapid identification of the underlying cause, along with the institution of appropriate treatment, is essential to minimize the risk of severe complications and improve the patient’s prognosis.

Disclaimer! This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical consultation. If you experience symptoms such as vomiting blood, dizziness, or abdominal pain, seek immediate medical attention for a correct diagnosis and appropriate intervention.

References:

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2. “Vomiting Blood.” NHS Choices, NHS, 5 Apr. 2025, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vomiting-blood/;
3. “Hematemesis.” Drugs.com, 3 Oct. 2022, https://www.drugs.com/cg/hematemesis.html;
4. Loft, D. E., & Ahlawat, S. K. (2023). Hematemesis. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing;
5. Gralnek, I. M., Dumonceau, J. M., Bastelli, R., Lanas, A., Sanders, D. S., Kurien, M., … & Bernstein, C. (2021). Diagnosis and management of nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline–Update 2021. Endoscopy, 53(03), 301-332.