Haematemesis: Also called Hematemesis, this is vomiting up blood. The place where this begins is normally the upper GI or gastrointestinal tract. Individuals may easily confuse this with hemoptysis which is the coughing up of blood – with the latte reason being the most common.

Symptoms of the beginning of hematemesis can include: history of liver disease or excessive use of alcohol; any esophago-gastric symptom, for instance nausea or vomiting; black or brown vomit; vomit which resembles coffee grounds; and tar-like stools that are dark in color and is a condition known as “melena”.

Reasons for this vomiting can include: vigorous and prolonged retching which can tear small blood vessels in the throat to esophagus – also known as Mallory-Weiss syndrome; erosions or irritation of the stomach lining; ulcers that bleed are often located in stomach, esophagus or duodenum; vomiting blood that is ingested because of hemorrhage in the nasal, oral cavity or throat; tumor of the esophagus or stomach; viral hemorrhagic fevers; gastroenteritis; gastritis; chronic viral hepatitis; as well as having a history of smoking.

Hematemesis is managed as a medical emergency requiring immediate professional aid. The most vital problem is when there is so much loss of blood that it can send the individual into shock.

Safeguarding the air pathway is of major significance in hematemesis patients particularly those with a consciousness level that is distressed. An endotracheal cuffed tube could be a choice that is life-saving.

Making sure that this airway is clear is a top precedence in hematemesis individuals, especially those with conscious level that is troubled (hepatic encephalopathy in esophageal varices patient.) An endotracheal tube that is cuffed could be a lifesaving choice.