Q. What does 'hematemesis' mean?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Hematemesis is a medical term used to describe the act of vomiting blood. When a person vomits and the vomitus contains blood, it is referred to as hematemesis. The blood may appear bright red, resembling fresh blood, or it may be darker in color, resembling coffee grounds. Hematemesis is a concerning symptom that can indicate a variety of underlying medical conditions, some of which can be serious or even life-threatening. It requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment to determine the cause and address the underlying issue. Common causes of hematemesis include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, esophageal varices, and other conditions affecting the digestive tract.
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