Sore throat and throwing up blood

Blood seen after vomiting can come from irritation or a small injury in the mouth or throat, swallowed blood from a nosebleed, forceful retching, or bleeding higher in the digestive tract. Bright red blood, dark material resembling coffee grounds, or blood mixed with vomit can have different implications. A sore throat caused by a cold, influenza, COVID-19, strep throat or tonsillitis does not by itself explain vomiting blood. Acid reflux can irritate the throat, but visible blood still needs assessment. Do not try to diagnose the source by colour alone.

If this is happening now, seek emergency medical care, especially if the amount is more than a streak, it has happened again, or you feel faint, weak, confused or short of breath. Sit upright or lie on your side if you feel likely to vomit again. Do not eat or drink large amounts while waiting for advice, and do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicine unless a clinician has told you to. Keep a note of the colour and amount, when it started, and any medicines such as blood thinners. Do not drive yourself if dizzy or unwell.

Call emergency services immediately for heavy bleeding, fainting, severe abdominal or chest pain, fast breathing, pale clammy skin, or difficulty staying awake. Urgent assessment is also needed with black stools, repeated vomiting, dehydration, or known liver disease or bleeding problems. Even a small amount should be discussed promptly with a clinician, because swallowed blood and vomited blood can be difficult to distinguish at home.

When did the bleeding begin, and did it follow coughing, retching or a nosebleed? Was the blood bright red or dark? How much was seen? Do you take blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medicines, and have you had black stools, dizziness, pain or weight loss?