Hematemesis, Bloody Vomiting (Haematemesis)

Hematemesis, Bloody Vomiting (Haematemesis): causes, symptoms and treatment

Hematemesis, or bloody vomiting, is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention. This symptom can be caused by bleeding from the esophagus, stomach or duodenum and is usually associated with other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Causes of hematemesis

The main causes of hematemesis are ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, gastritis caused by irritation of the stomach by any food or drink, as well as varicose veins of the esophagus.

Stomach and duodenal ulcers can be caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, certain medications such as aspirin and some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, stress and smoking.

Gastritis can be caused by stomach irritation from certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, alcohol, acidic fruits and vegetables, and smoking.

Esophageal varices can be caused by cirrhosis of the liver, which leads to liver damage and increased pressure in the blood vessels of the esophagus.

Symptoms of hematemesis

Hematemesis manifests itself in the form of vomiting blood. The blood may be fresh or digested and dark brown in color. The patient may also experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and weakness.

Treatment of hematemesis

If a patient experiences hematemesis, they should consult a doctor immediately. Treatment will depend on the cause of the bleeding.

If the cause of bleeding is a stomach or duodenal ulcer, the patient may be treated with antibiotics to fight the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, as well as drugs to reduce stomach acidity.

If the cause is esophageal varices, the patient may be given treatment to reduce the pressure in the blood vessels of the esophagus and prevent further bleeding.

If the bleeding does not stop on its own, procedures may need to be performed to stop the bleeding, such as coagulating the bleeding site with a laser, a heat probe, or an injection of epinephrine or some type of sclerosing agent. All these procedures are performed through an endoscope.

In conclusion, hematemesis, or bloody vomiting, is a serious symptom that requires prompt medical attention. It can be caused by various reasons, including stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastritis, esophageal varices and other diseases. Treatment depends on the cause of the bleeding and may include medications, endoscopic procedures, and blood transfusions if there is significant blood loss.

It is important to know that hematemesis is a serious condition that can lead to complications such as anemia, shock and even death. Therefore, if this symptom appears, you should seek medical help as soon as possible.

Hematemesis, Bloody Vomiting (Haematemesis): Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Hematemesis, also known as hematemesis, is a condition in which blood is released from the stomach and esophagus and then expelled through the mouth during vomiting. Although blood can enter the gastrointestinal tract for a variety of reasons, hematemesis most often results from bleeding from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum.

Causes of hematemesis:

1. Gastric and duodenal ulcers: This is one of the most common causes of bleeding leading to hematemesis. Ulcers can form due to Helicobacter pylori infection or the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
2. Gastritis: Chronic gastritis, caused by inflammation of the gastric mucosa, can lead to bleeding and hematemesis. This can be caused by irritants such as certain foods or alcohol.
3. Esophageal Varices: This condition is characterized by dilation and enlargement of the veins in the esophagus. Varicose veins become fragile and may burst, leading to bleeding and hematemesis. It often occurs with cirrhosis of the liver or portal hypertension - increased pressure in the venous system of the liver.
4. Trauma: Any trauma that causes damage to the esophagus, stomach, or other organs of the digestive system can lead to hematemesis.
5. Cancer: Rarely, hematemesis can be caused by cancer of the esophagus, stomach, or other organs of the digestive system.

Symptoms of hematemesis:

1. Vomiting of blood, which may be fresh or look like coffee grounds.
2. Dark, tarry stool known as melena. This indicates the presence of bleeding in the upper part of the digestive tract.
3. Weakness, pallor and general fatigue.
4. Abdominal pain or discomfort.

Treatment of hematemesis:
Treatment for hematemesis depends on its cause and severity. The initial goal is to stop the bleeding and restore the volume of lost blood. In some cases, hospitalization and blood transfusion are necessary to compensate for blood loss. If bleeding does not stop on its own, endoscopy procedures may be required to coagulate the bleeding site. Endoscopy procedures may involve using a laser, a heat probe, or injecting epinephrine or a sclerosing agent directly at the site of bleeding.

After stopping the bleeding, it is important to consult a doctor to identify and treat the underlying disease. If the cause of hematemesis is a stomach or duodenal ulcer, medications to reduce gastric acidity, antibiotics to treat Helicobacter pylori infection, and medications to promote ulcer healing may be prescribed. Esophageal varices may require surgery or procedures to narrow or remove the varicose veins.

It is important to note that hematemesis is a serious condition that requires medical attention. If you experience vomiting blood or other symptoms indicating hematemesis, you should immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

In conclusion, hematemesis, or hematemesis, is a condition in which blood is expelled from the stomach and esophagus through the mouth. Often the causes of hematemesis are ulcers, gastritis and varicose veins of the esophagus. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the bleeding and may include blood transfusions, endoscopy procedures, and treatment of the underlying condition. If you experience symptoms of hematemesis, it is important to see your doctor to get the help and diagnosis you need.