glossary

haematemesis

Definition haematemesis

haematemesisl

haematemesis n. the act of vomiting blood. The blood may have been swallowed (e.g. following nosebleed or tonsillectomy) but more often arises from bleeding in the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum. Common causes are gastric and duodenal ulcers, gastritis brought on by irritating food or drink, and varicose veins in the oesophagus. If much blood is lost, it is usually replaced by blood transfusion.