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Hematemesis

Hematemesis, or vomiting blood, signals a serious medical emergency. If you're experiencing red or coffee-ground vomitus, seek prompt care. In Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Rishi Chadha offers comprehensive evaluation and advanced endoscopic treatments at GastroDoxs to diagnose and manage bleeding.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is Hematemesis?

Hematemesis is the medical term for vomiting blood. The blood may appear bright red or resemble coffee grounds. This is a serious symptom that requires prompt medical evaluation. (ICD-10 code: K92.0)

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Peptic or gastric ulcers
  • Severe acid reflux or esophageal irritation
  • Mallory-Weiss tear (a tear in the esophageal lining)
  • Esophageal varices (swollen veins, often due to liver disease)
  • Long-term use of NSAIDs or other strong medications
  • Infections, tumors, or other growths in the upper GI tract
  • Risk factors: heavy alcohol use, smoking, chronic NSAID use

Signs and Symptoms

  • Bright red or dark brown (�coffee-ground�) vomit
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Low blood pressure or fainting
  • Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Signs of blood loss: pale skin, fatigue

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Hematemesis

1. Medical History & Physical Exam

Dr. Chadha begins by reviewing your symptoms, alcohol use, NSAID use, and any history of liver or gastrointestinal disease. He performs a focused physical exam to assess for signs of bleeding or anemia.

2. Blood Tests

Lab work is ordered to check hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, liver function tests, and coagulation studies to quantify blood loss and identify any clotting abnormalities.

3. Upper Endoscopy

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is performed to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This allows Dr. Chadha to locate the bleeding site and often treat it immediately with clips, bands, or injection therapy.

4. Imaging Studies

  • CT scan or CT angiography to pinpoint active bleeding or evaluate for mass lesions.
  • Abdominal ultrasound to assess for liver disease or portal hypertension contributing to variceal bleeding.

5. Differential Diagnosis

Dr. Chadha systematically rules out other causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding'such as Mallory-Weiss tears, varices, tumors, or vascular malformations�to tailor the appropriate treatment plan.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for hematemesis.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

  • Stop drinking alcohol
  • Quit smoking
  • Eat soft, bland meals
  • Sit upright after eating to reduce reflux
  • Sleep with your head slightly raised

2. Medications

  • Acid blockers (proton pump inhibitors) to protect the stomach lining
  • Antibiotics if an infection such as H. pylori is detected
  • Stomach lining protectants to promote healing

3. Procedures

  • Endoscopic therapy using clips or bands to stop active bleeding
  • Injection therapy to seal off leaking blood vessels
  • Advanced radiology interventions or surgery in severe cases
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is hematemesis?

Vomiting blood from your stomach or esophagus.

Is it serious?

Yes. Always seek care fast.

What is the ICD-10 code for hematemesis?

K92.0.

Can stress cause vomiting blood?

Not usually. It's more often due to ulcers, tears, varices or other injuries.

Can I treat it at home?

No. You need a doctor to evaluate and address the underlying cause.

Will I need an endoscopy?

Most likely, yes. An upper endoscopy helps locate and often treat the bleeding source.

What else can cause hematemesis?

Peptic ulcers, Mallory-Weiss tears, esophageal varices, tumors or severe reflux.

Can I eat after vomiting blood?

Only once your doctor clears you�usually starting with clear liquids and advancing slowly.

How long does recovery take?

It varies. Some patients improve in a few days; others may need longer treatment.

Should I see a GI specialist?

Yes. A board-certified gastroenterologist like Dr. Chadha provides expert diagnosis and care.

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