Fainting and throwing up blood: urgent advice

Blood in vomit may look bright red, dark brown, or like coffee grounds. It can come from the upper digestive tract, or from swallowed blood after bleeding in the mouth or nose. Fainting can occur when blood loss or dehydration lowers circulation, but the appearance alone cannot show how serious the source is. Black, tar-like stools, weakness, pale or clammy skin, rapid breathing, abdominal pain, or confusion add concern.

Call emergency services and explain that the person has fainted and vomited blood. Keep them lying on their side if drowsy or vomiting, or flat if fully awake and breathing normally. Do not make them walk, drive, or take food, drink, painkillers, or other medicines unless instructed. Keep any vomit or a photograph available for clinicians, and bring a list of medicines, especially blood thinners.

Emergency assessment is needed even if the bleeding stops or the person feels better. It is especially urgent after another faint, ongoing vomiting, severe pain, breathlessness, a head injury, increasing drowsiness, or signs of shock such as cold skin and extreme weakness. Do not wait for a routine appointment.

Tell the team when the blood appeared, its colour and approximate amount, whether stools changed, and whether there was retching or abdominal pain first. Mention ulcers, liver disease, alcohol use, recent procedures, and every medicine or supplement taken.