Can Vomiting Blood Cause Death?
July 20, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, vomiting blood, medically known as hematemesis, can be a severe and life-threatening medical emergency. Vomiting blood indicates that there is bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, typically from the esophagus, stomach, or the beginning part of the small intestine. The presence of blood in the vomit can range from specks or streaks of blood to a significant amount of fresh, red blood.
The severity of the situation depends on the underlying cause of the bleeding, the amount of blood lost, and how quickly medical attention is sought. Vomiting blood can be caused by various conditions, including:
- Peptic ulcers: Open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine, or esophagus.
- Esophageal varices: Enlarged and swollen veins in the esophagus, usually associated with liver disease.
- Mallory-Weiss tear: A tear in the lining of the esophagus, often caused by severe vomiting or retching.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, which can lead to bleeding.
- Gastrointestinal tumors or cancers.
If not treated promptly, severe and persistent bleeding can lead to significant blood loss, leading to a condition called hypovolemic shock. Hypovolemic shock is a life-threatening condition where the body loses so much blood that it cannot maintain adequate blood flow to vital organs, potentially leading to organ failure and death.
It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else is vomiting blood. If you are unsure about the cause of the bleeding, the severity of the situation, or the person’s stability, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate evaluation and treatment. Early medical intervention can be life-saving in such situations.