Sudden vomiting of blood: what to do

Blood may look bright red, dark brown, or like coffee grounds. It can come from the stomach or food pipe, sometimes after repeated forceful vomiting has irritated or torn tissue. Ulcers, inflammation, liver-related bleeding, and medicines that affect clotting are other possible causes. Swallowed blood from the mouth or nose can also be mistaken for blood from the stomach. The appearance does not safely show how serious the bleeding is.

Call emergency services or go to an emergency department immediately. Sit upright or lie on your side if you feel faint, and have someone stay with you. Do not eat, drink alcohol, or take non-prescribed painkillers while waiting unless an emergency professional tells you to. Bring a list of medicines, including blood thinners, and mention recent vomiting, black stools, abdominal pain, or known liver disease. Do not travel alone.

Treat the situation as immediately life-threatening if bleeding is heavy or repeated, or if you have faintness, confusion, cold clammy skin, rapid breathing, severe abdominal pain, black stools, or unusual weakness. These can accompany significant blood loss or shock. Even a small amount needs prompt assessment because bleeding can continue after the vomiting stops.

Ask where the blood may have come from, whether your medicines increase bleeding risk, what tests or treatment are needed, and which warning signs should bring you back urgently.