What are the causes of vomiting blood?

Aug 02, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Chen Dongfeng

Introduction

1. Respiratory system disorders: Typically, these include bronchial tuberculosis, pulmonary tuberculosis, lung cancer, and mitral valve stenosis associated with heart disease. 2. Gastrointestinal system disorders: Such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal diverticulitis, esophageal cancer, and esophageal foreign bodies. 3. Systemic diseases: Including hematologic disorders such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), allergic purpura, and leukemia.

In daily life, vomiting blood is a relatively serious condition that must not be taken lightly. It is essential to identify the underlying cause as early as possible and initiate appropriate treatment to improve one’s condition. This symptom most commonly results from gastrointestinal dysfunction or chronic alcohol consumption. A gastroscopy examination at a hospital is necessary to effectively address and alleviate this symptom of hematemesis. So, what are the causes of vomiting blood? The following section provides answers to this question.

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What Causes Vomiting Blood?

1. Respiratory System Disorders

Respiratory conditions such as bronchial tuberculosis, pulmonary tuberculosis, lung cancer, and mitral stenosis (a cardiac condition) must be considered and ruled out. Hemoptysis—coughing up blood—is common in bronchiectasis and pulmonary tuberculosis, both respiratory diseases. Other associated conditions include uremia, cor pulmonale, and respiratory failure. Patients are advised to rest in bed, with close monitoring of consciousness, blood pressure, pulse rate, volume of bleeding, and urine output. Maintaining airway patency is critical; during massive hemorrhage, fasting is recommended.

2. Gastrointestinal Disorders

These include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal diverticulitis, esophageal cancer, esophageal foreign bodies, Mallory-Weiss syndrome (esophagogastric mucosal tear), and esophageal trauma. Massive hematemesis often arises from rupture of esophageal varices secondary to portal hypertension. Esophageal foreign bodies perforating the aorta can also lead to life-threatening massive hematemesis. Additionally, peptic ulcer disease is the most common cause; others include acute erosive hemorrhagic gastritis, gastric cancer, gastrinoma, and Dieulafoy lesion (abnormal persistent artery).

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3. Systemic Diseases

Hematologic disorders—including immune thrombocytopenic purpura, allergic purpura, leukemia, hemophilia, Hodgkin lymphoma, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and other coagulopathies—may cause hematemesis. Infectious diseases such as epidemic hemorrhagic fever, leptospirosis, dengue fever, fulminant hepatitis, and sepsis may also contribute. Furthermore, connective tissue disorders—including systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, and polyarteritis nodosa involving the upper gastrointestinal tract—can trigger this symptom.

The above outlines the potential causes of vomiting blood. We hope this information is helpful to you.

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Should post-hemorrhoidectomy bleeding be a cause for concern?

In general, post-hemorrhoidectomy bleeding warrants attention and should be assessed based on the timing and volume of bleeding. If any discomfort or concerning symptoms arise, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Scientific postoperative routines—including appropriate rest, diet, and lifestyle—can help minimize the risk of bleeding. Incorporate high-fiber foods into daily meals and maintain adequate hydration to ensure soft, regular bowel movements. Avoid prolonged squatting during defecation and strenuous physical activity, and minimize pressure on the perianal region.