Digestive Problems
Common Symptoms: Hematemesis
Hematemesis is a very dangerous condition in which a person bleeds internally, and vomits as a result. The blood loss that a person may experience in an episode of hematemesis can be life threatening. The person could go into shock as a result of this bleeding, and even die. There are many causes of hematemesis. Some involve erosion of the stomach lining, or ulcers in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. Patients with a history of liver disease, or alcohol abuse, can develop hematemesis.
A person who begins vomiting brown or black vomit may be bleeding internally. Bowel movements that produce dark, tar-like stools are another indication of internal bleeding.
Hematemesis is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.