Hematemesis is an alarming set of symptoms that can result from various underlying causes, ranging from minor issues such as swallowing blood from a nosebleed to more severe conditions such as gastrointestinal ulcers, liver disease, or malignancies. Hematemesis often presents as bright red blood or coffee-ground-like material in vomit, indicating the presence of blood that has been exposed to stomach acids.

Treatment approaches may include medication to reduce stomach acid, endoscopic procedures to control bleeding, or surgery in more severe cases. Properly understanding the potential causes and recognising the symptoms of hematemesis is crucial for effective management, ensuring the best possible outcomes for affected individuals.

What Is Hematemesis?

Hematemesis refers to the act of vomiting blood. The blood that is vomited can range in colour from bright red to a dark, coffee-ground-like appearance, depending on the source of bleeding within the gastrointestinal tract. This condition is often a sign of bleeding within the upper gastrointestinal tract, which includes the oesophagus, stomach, and, initially, part of the small intestine.

What Causes Hematemesis?

There are several potential causes of hematemesis, including-

Binge Drinking – Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to an increase in the blood alcohol level and lead to liver failure, causing severe bleeding, leading to vomiting blood or hematemesis.
Peptic Ulcers- Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. When these ulcers bleed, it can result in hematemesis.
Esophageal Varices- These are enlarged veins in the lower part of the oesophagus, commonly associated with liver cirrhosis. When these veins rupture, they can cause severe bleeding.
Gastritis- Inflammation of the stomach lining can lead to erosions or ulcers, which may bleed and result in hematemesis.
Mallory-Weiss Tear- This tear occurs in the junction between the oesophagus and the stomach, often due to severe retching or vomiting, leading to bleeding.
Esophagitis- Inflammation of the oesophagus can result in erosions and bleeding that may be vomited.
Gastric Cancer- While less common, stomach cancer can also present with hematemesis as a symptom.

Symptoms of Hematemesis

In addition to the obvious symptom of vomiting blood, individuals experiencing hematemesis may also present with-

Black, tarry stools (melena), indicating bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract
Weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue and pale skin

Paying attention to these symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention if hematemesis occurs is crucial.

How Is Hematemesis Treated?

The treatment for hematemesis depends on its underlying cause. Upon experiencing hematemesis, it is essential to seek urgent medical care. Treatment options may include-

Blood Transfusion- If significant blood loss has occurred, a blood transfusion may be necessary to restore normal blood volume and prevent complications.
Cauterization – Using endoscopy procedure, a gastroenterologist can visualise and treat the interior of the gastrointestinal tract to identify the source of bleeding and potentially treat it by methods such as cauterization or injection of medications.
Medications- In some cases, medications to reduce stomach acid production or promote the healing of ulcers may be prescribed.
Surgery- Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases of severe bleeding that cannot be controlled by other means.

Conclusion

Chronic blood loss from repeated episodes of hematemesis can result in anaemia, leading to persistent fatigue and reduced physical capacity. Psychologically, the experience of vomiting blood can induce severe anxiety and stress, potentially exacerbating underlying health conditions. If the individual you know experiences hematemesis, do not hesitate to seek medical help immediately to address the underlying issue and prevent complications.