[Previous Page] [Next Page] [Table of Contents/Search]

Vomiting of blood

Scenario: The day is extremely cold. You find Chris, a 35 year old, in a lane. He is surrounded by several red wine casks and has propped himself up against a wall. His vomiting appears red in colour. Chris appears unwell because of his pallor and sweating, and feels very cold.

The vomiting of blood is known as 'haematemesis' in medical terms. Chris may be:

• Intoxicated and vomiting the wine only; or
• Vomiting blood from bleeding stomach ulcers or from a burst 'varicose' vein in, or a tear in the lining of, the gullet (the oesophagus).

Advice:

Reassure Chris. If he has cool, pale, moist skin and a rapid pulse (110+ per minute) he may be in shock (that is, in a state of very low blood pressure). This may be treated by lying him flat, elevating the legs if possible. Cover him with a blanket to maintain body temperature. Be careful to avoid contact with bodily secretions (especially blood), and use gloves if you have them.

Note: Because of situations like this, try to have disposable gloves available at all times.

If his breathing seems obstructed, clear and secure the airway by rolling him into the 'coma' position (on the side with a clear airway: see 'The ABC of life support'). Contact a local doctor and the ambulance service urgently.