Stomach cancer and vomiting blood

Blood in vomit may look bright red, dark brown or like coffee grounds. It can come from bleeding in the oesophagus, stomach or upper intestine. Stomach cancer can present with bleeding, but ulcers, severe irritation, tears after retching and medicines can also cause it. The appearance does not identify the cause.

A clinician may check circulation, blood counts and other signs of blood loss, then use an upper endoscopy to locate bleeding and take a biopsy if an abnormal area is seen. Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, anti-inflammatory painkillers, alcohol use and any recent vomiting.

Call emergency services or go to an emergency department now. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or weak. Sit upright or lie on your side if you are drowsy, keep a record or photo of the vomit if safe, and take your medicine list. Do not eat, drink alcohol or take extra pain medicine while waiting for instructions.

After urgent treatment, further tests may clarify whether the bleeding came from Stomach Cancer, an ulcer, Helicobacter Pylori Infection or another condition. Any cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, Immunotherapy or surgery, depends on confirmed findings.

Seek emergency care immediately for any vomiting of blood, especially with fainting, confusion, rapid breathing, cold or clammy skin, severe abdominal pain, black stools or repeated vomiting. Do not wait to see whether the bleeding stops, because the amount visible may not reflect the seriousness of the bleed.

Ask where the bleeding appears to come from, whether an endoscopy or biopsy is needed, which medicines to stop or restart, and which warning signs require a return to hospital. Ask how to protect your stomach while the cause is being treated.