Why Is My Vomit Red?

Red vomit can indicate bleeding in your upper digestive system. This includes your esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth and stomach), stomach, or the beginning of your small intestine (duodenum). The blood's appearance can vary; it might be bright red if the bleeding is fresh, or darker and possibly black or brown if it has been in your stomach for a while.

Several factors can cause red vomit. The most serious is bleeding in your upper digestive tract. This can stem from various issues, including:

• Ulcers: Open sores in your stomach or duodenum.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux can cause irritation and bleeding.
• Esophageal varices: Swollen veins in the esophagus, often associated with liver disease.
• Mallory-Weiss tear: A tear in the lining of the esophagus, often caused by severe vomiting.
• Cancer: Tumors in the stomach or esophagus.
• Blood thinners: Medication that increases bleeding risk.
• Inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions like Crohn's disease can cause bleeding in the intestines.

However, red vomit isn't always caused by bleeding. Sometimes, the color comes from something you ate or drank. For example, consuming foods or beverages with red food coloring can result in red-tinged vomit.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Vomiting blood (hematemesis) is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention. Do not delay seeking help if you vomit blood. The sources emphasize that this often needs emergency treatment.

Several sources explicitly state that vomiting blood, even in small amounts, warrants a visit to the doctor. Delaying treatment can have severe consequences.

Determining the Cause

A doctor will determine the cause of your red vomit through a physical examination, reviewing your medical history, and possibly ordering tests such as an endoscopy (a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into your esophagus and stomach) to visually assess the source of bleeding.

Important Note: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you are experiencing red vomit, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.