Vomiting blood
Alternative names:
blood in the vomit; hematemesis
Home care:
No matter what the cause, seek immediate medical care for this problem.
Call your health care provider if:
- vomiting blood occurs. This is an emergency situation, so call the doctor immediately or have someone drive the patient to the emergency room!
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting the vomiting blood in detail may include: - time pattern
- When did this begin?
- Has it ever occurred before?
- quality
- How much blood was in the vomit?
- Was the vomit entirely blood?
- Was the blood bright red, dark red or black?
- Were there clots?
- Was the vomit mostly liquid or was it thick or tarry?
- aggravating factors
- Has there been a recent nosebleed?
- Has there been recent vigorous vomiting?
- Has there been a recent episode of gastroenteritis?
- Has there been a recent episode of coughing?
- other
- additional important information
- What medications are being taken?
- Have there been any recent injuries to the nose, mouth, or abdomen?
- Have there been any recent surgical procedures?
- Have there been any recent dental procedures such as tooth extractions?
- Is there a history of bulimia or self-induced vomiting?
- Is there a history of ulcers, esophageal varices, or liver problems?
- Is there a history of problems with blood clotting?
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include: Intervention:
If massive hematemesis, emergency intervention should be anticipated. This may include intravenous fluids, medications, blood transfusions, or other treatments. As the bleeding diminishes, frequent doses of antacids may be given by nasogastric tube. Medications to decrease stomach acid may be prescribed.
After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to vomiting blood to your personal medical record.
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