Mallory-Weiss tear

Alternative names:

mucosal lacerations of the cardioesophageal junction

Treatment:

The tear usually heals in about 10 days without special treatment. Antacids or H2 blockers (medications that block specific "histamine receptors" in the gastrointestinal tract) may be given. If blood loss has been great, blood transfusions may be indicated. Occasionally tears will need repair, which can often be done using an endoscope (see EGD). Surgery is rarely required.

Expectations (prognosis):

Recurrent bleeding is uncommon, and the outcome is expected to be good, particularly for nonalcoholic patients.

Complications:

• hemorrhage (loss of blood)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if vomiting blood or if bloody stools develop.