Hematemesis
Hematemesis[edit | edit source]
Hematemesis refers to the vomiting of blood, a serious symptom that can indicate a variety of underlying health conditions. It involves the expulsion of blood from the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which may appear bright red or have a coffee-ground appearance due to partial digestion by stomach acids.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Hematemesis can result from several conditions, including:
- Peptic ulcers: Open sores on the inner lining of the stomach or upper small intestine.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining.
- Esophageal varices: Swollen veins in the lower part of the esophagus, often associated with liver disease.
- Mallory-Weiss tear: A tear in the mucous membrane at the junction of the stomach and esophagus, typically caused by severe vomiting.
- Gastrointestinal bleeding: Bleeding anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Besides the presence of blood in vomit, symptoms accompanying hematemesis may include:
- Dizziness and fainting
- Abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Paleness
- Rapid heart rate
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosing the cause of hematemesis involves a series of tests, including:
- Blood tests to assess overall health and clotting function.
- Endoscopy to visually examine the upper GI tract for sources of bleeding.
- Imaging tests, such as CT scans or X-rays, to identify internal bleeding.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for hematemesis focuses on stopping the bleeding and addressing the underlying cause. This may involve:
- Medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the GI tract.
- Endoscopic therapies to control bleeding, such as banding or sclerotherapy for esophageal varices.
- Surgery in severe cases to repair the source of bleeding.
Complications[edit | edit source]
If not treated promptly, hematemesis can lead to significant blood loss, leading to anemia, shock, or even death.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Preventive measures depend on the underlying cause but may include managing chronic conditions, avoiding nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and reducing alcohol consumption.
See Also[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
- Mayo Clinic - Vomiting Blood
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Gastrointestinal Bleeding
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