Blood during vomiting: what it can mean

Bright red blood may be fresh, while dark material resembling coffee grounds can indicate blood that has been altered in the stomach. Repeated retching can irritate or tear the lining near the food pipe. Swallowed blood from the nose or mouth is another possibility. Illnesses such as [Gastroenteritis](/conditions/gastroenteritis/) or [Food Poisoning](/conditions/food-poisoning/) can cause forceful vomiting, but blood still warrants assessment. Severe upper abdominal pain can occur with [Pancreatitis](/conditions/pancreatitis/) or [Gallstones](/conditions/gallstones/), and the cause cannot be confirmed from appearance alone.

Do not eat or drink large amounts while waiting for medical advice. Keep a sample or photograph if it can be done safely, and note the colour, amount, timing, abdominal pain, dizziness, and medicines you take. Avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines unless a clinician has specifically told you to use them. A doctor may check circulation, blood tests, and the digestive tract.

Go to emergency care immediately if the vomit contains more than a small streak, looks like coffee grounds, or the bleeding repeats. Emergency warning signs include faintness, confusion, cold clammy skin, severe weakness, black stools, severe abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint. Children, older adults, and anyone taking medicine that affects clotting need especially prompt advice.

Could retching or swallowed blood explain this? Do my medicines increase bleeding risk? Which tests are needed, and what should I do if vomiting returns?