Diarrhea and blood in vomit: what to do

Fresh blood may look red, while partly digested blood can resemble dark coffee grounds. Do not wait for another episode before seeking help. Diarrhea can add fluid and salt loss, making faintness and weakness more concerning.

Vomiting blood suggests bleeding somewhere in the upper digestive tract, such as the oesophagus or stomach. Causes can include irritation after forceful vomiting, an ulcer, inflammation, or another digestive condition. Oesophageal cancer and stomach cancer can present with digestive symptoms, but these symptoms alone do not establish either diagnosis.

Dark food can sometimes alter the appearance of vomit, yet suspected blood should still be assessed promptly. A clinician may ask about black stools, abdominal pain, medicines such as blood thinners, recent vomiting, and how much fluid you can keep down.

Arrange urgent medical care now. If possible, note whether the vomit was bright red or coffee-ground-like, when it occurred, and whether stools are black or bloody. Bring a current medicine list and mention cancer treatment, liver disease, ulcers, or previous digestive bleeding.

Do not drive if you feel faint or weak. Avoid taking extra anti-inflammatory pain medicines unless a clinician specifically directs you. If you are actively vomiting, do not force food or large drinks while waiting for emergency advice.

Call emergency services for ongoing or heavy bleeding, collapse, confusion, severe breathlessness, clammy or pale skin, intense abdominal pain, a racing heartbeat, or inability to stay awake. Black tar-like stools, repeated coffee-ground vomit, or worsening dizziness also require immediate assessment.

Ask where the bleeding may be coming from, which blood tests or camera examinations are needed, whether any medicines should be paused, and how diarrhea-related dehydration will be treated. Also ask what changes after discharge should bring you straight back for care.