Vomiting blood from the stomach: what to know

Blood exposed to stomach acid can turn dark brown and resemble wet coffee grounds, while faster bleeding may remain red. Stomach ulcers, inflammation, medicines that irritate the lining, and other digestive conditions can cause bleeding. Pain may be absent, so feeling relatively well does not prove that the bleeding is minor. A clinician may ask about pain, black stools, alcohol, medicines, previous ulcers, and liver disease. Stomach cancer is one possible diagnosis among many, and oesophageal cancer can also be assessed when symptoms or examination point above the stomach.

Arrange urgent medical assessment and take your medicine packets or a written list with you. Avoid alcohol and anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen unless a clinician directs otherwise. Do not eat or drink large amounts while waiting for instructions, particularly if vomiting continues. Record the colour of the vomit, any black stool, dizziness, and the time symptoms began.

Use emergency services for repeated vomiting of blood, faintness, new confusion, severe or persistent abdominal pain, chest pain, breathing problems, cold clammy skin, or marked weakness. Black tar-like stool or a racing heartbeat adds concern. If the visible blood stops, still obtain urgent advice because internal bleeding can continue without another large vomit.

Ask what part of the digestive tract is most likely bleeding, whether an endoscopy or blood tests are needed, and which medicines can safely continue. Ask how any ulcer or inflammation will be treated and what symptoms mean you should return immediately.