Hematemesis is a symptom of what disease?

Jul 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 28-year-old female. I recently experienced hematemesis (vomiting blood) and would like to ask, what diseases can cause hematemesis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua

Hematemesis, commonly referred to as "hemoptysis" or "vomiting blood" in medical terminology, frequently occurs in patients with diseases of the digestive or respiratory systems. In cases of digestive system diseases, hematemesis may result from peptic ulcers, gastric mucosal lesions, gastric cancer, esophageal and gastric varices, and other conditions that can cause rupture and bleeding of mucosal blood vessels in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to the symptom of vomiting blood. Additionally, respiratory diseases such as bronchitis may cause rupture of blood vessels in the bronchial walls during severe coughing episodes, resulting in hematemesis. Cardiac valve diseases, coronary artery disease, and myocardial infarction can also lead to pulmonary congestion due to impaired blood circulation, thereby increasing vascular wall pressure and potentially causing hematemesis.

Hematemesis is a sign of serious illness. Once it occurs, prompt medical attention is necessary to undergo detailed examinations to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Common diagnostic methods include endoscopy, imaging examinations such as CT scans, and blood tests. While awaiting medical assistance, it is important to keep the patient calm and avoid strenuous activity to prevent exacerbation of the bleeding condition.