What should you know about liver cirrhosis and blood vomiting?

Cirrhosis creates scarring that can obstruct blood flow through the liver. Pressure may then build in veins around the food pipe or stomach, causing fragile veins to bleed. Blood may look bright red or dark and coffee-like; swallowed blood can also lead to dark, tarry stools. Other causes, such as an ulcer or a tear after retching, are possible, so the source cannot be identified safely at home.

Call emergency services immediately or go to the emergency department. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or weak. Sit upright or lie on your side if drowsy, and have someone stay with you. Do not eat or drink while waiting for urgent advice unless emergency clinicians tell you otherwise. Bring a list of medicines, especially blood thinners, and tell clinicians about known cirrhosis, previous bleeding, alcohol use, and recent vomiting.

Do not wait for the bleeding to stop or for a routine appointment. Fainting, confusion, cold or clammy skin, fast breathing, severe weakness, black stools, or repeated vomiting of blood can signal major blood loss. Even a small-looking amount needs emergency assessment when cirrhosis is present. After the immediate problem is treated, arrange specialist follow-up to reduce the chance of another bleed and review medicines and liver care.

What was the bleeding source? Were enlarged veins treated? Do I need an endoscopy or repeat monitoring? Which medicines should I stop, restart, or avoid? What warning signs require another emergency visit? How will my cirrhosis and risk of future bleeding be managed?