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Vomiting Blood (Hematemesis) – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Vomiting Blood (Hematemesis) – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we understand that vomiting blood (hematemesis) is a serious medical condition that requires immediate evaluation and treatment. Blood in vomit may appear bright red or have a coffee-ground appearance, indicating bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring proper management.

Causes of Vomiting Blood

Hematemesis can result from various conditions affecting the stomach, esophagus, or upper intestines, including:

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding –

  • Peptic Ulcers – Open sores in the stomach or duodenum caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or long-term NSAID use.
  • Gastritis – Inflammation of the stomach lining due to alcohol, NSAIDs, or infections.
  • Esophageal Varices – Enlarged veins in the esophagus, often due to liver cirrhosis, which can rupture and cause severe bleeding.
  • Mallory-Weiss Tear – A tear in the esophageal lining caused by severe vomiting, coughing, or retching.

• Severe Infections and Inflammatory Conditions –

  • Gastrointestinal Cancer – Stomach or esophageal cancer can cause bleeding and vomiting blood.
  • Esophagitis – Inflammation of the esophagus due to acid reflux (GERD), infections, or medication-induced irritation.

• Blood Clotting Disorders –

  • Coagulopathy – Conditions that affect blood clotting, such as liver disease or use of anticoagulant medications.
  • Thrombocytopenia – Low platelet count leading to increased risk of bleeding.

• Swallowing Blood from Other Sources –

  • Nosebleeds (Epistaxis) – Ingested blood from nasal bleeding can be mistaken for vomiting blood.
  • Dental or Oral Bleeding – Bleeding from gums, throat, or oral injuries.

Diagnosis of Vomiting Blood

A thorough evaluation at Emirates Hospitals Group is essential to determine the source of bleeding. Diagnostic methods may include:

• Medical History and Physical Examination – Assessing symptoms, medications, alcohol use, and medical conditions.
• Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy – EGD) – A camera-guided procedure to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper intestines for sources of bleeding.
• Blood Tests – Evaluating hemoglobin levels, clotting function, liver function, and infection markers.
• Imaging Studies (CT Scan or Ultrasound) – Detecting liver disease, tumors, or vascular abnormalities.
• Stool Test (Occult Blood Test) – Checking for hidden blood in the digestive system.

Treatment for Vomiting Blood

The appropriate treatment depends on the severity and cause of bleeding. At Emirates Hospitals Group, our specialists provide emergency and long-term management, including:

• Emergency Stabilization –

  • IV fluids and blood transfusions for severe blood loss.
  • Oxygen therapy and vital sign monitoring.

• Endoscopic Treatments –

  • Endoscopic Band Ligation (EBL) – Used to stop bleeding from esophageal varices.
  • Cauterization or Clipping – Sealing bleeding ulcers or lesions in the GI tract.
  • Injection Therapy – Medications injected to control bleeding.

• Medications –

  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) – To reduce stomach acid and prevent ulcer-related bleeding.
  • Antibiotics – If infection-related gastritis or H. pylori is present.
  • Vasopressors – To reduce portal hypertension in liver disease patients with varices.

• Surgical or Interventional Procedures –

  • Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) – A procedure for managing esophageal varices in cirrhosis patients.
  • Surgery – In cases of severe bleeding, tumors, or vascular malformations.

If you experience vomiting blood, seeking immediate medical attention at Emirates Hospitals Group is crucial for early diagnosis and life-saving treatment.