Internal Bleeding Concerns
Profile: 34 years old, 5'8", non-smoker but uses vape products. Currently, I am not taking any medications. Recently, I experienced a distressing episode where I vomited what appeared to be dark blood, resembling coffee grounds, late Thursday night into early Friday morning. After indulging in excessive drinking over the past few weeks, it felt like a severe relapse. I sought help at the emergency room and described my worsening condition, including chest pain, difficulty with breathing and swallowing, and deep, unsettling hiccups. Honestly, I was in so much pain that I could barely stand. It felt like something serious was occurring, and I suspected I had caused myself harm. During my examination, the nurse evaluated both my abdomen and rectum for melena (I believe that’s the correct spelling), and she assured me that everything seemed normal. Her primary focus was on managing the withdrawal symptoms. The results from my bloodwork and urine analysis came back fine. I have an ultrasound scheduled for tomorrow, along with an endoscopy to be arranged later. While in the hospital, I was given saline IV fluids and some medication through a yellow bag. The only food I consumed was a cheese sandwich. Upon returning home at around 10 PM, I quickly fell asleep. I woke at 3 AM to use the restroom, and that's when I noticed an extremely dark stool. I’m quite frightened. Should I return to the emergency department, or can I wait for my upcoming ultrasound and scoping procedure?
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 10:21:02 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel frightened after experiencing dark vomit and stool, as these can indicate potential internal bleeding or other serious issues. Given your recent symptoms, let's break down your concerns and next steps clearly.
Main Points
- Dark vomit and extremely dark stools can suggest bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
- An ultrasound and endoscopy are being scheduled, but monitoring symptoms closely is essential.
- Return to the emergency department if certain critical symptoms develop.
Explanation
The appearance of dark blood in your vomit (resembling coffee grounds) and your dark stool (melena) indicates that there could be bleeding in your digestive system. It's positive that the initial hospital evaluation did not show abnormalities, but you’re correct to remain vigilant. The symptoms you're experiencing, particularly chest pain and difficulty breathing, merit attention, especially if they worsen.
Next Steps
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency care:
- Severe chest pain or pressure.
- Increased difficulty breathing or swallowing.
- Continuous abdominal pain or significant changes in stool appearance (especially if it turns red).
- Dizziness or faintness, which may indicate low blood volume from bleeding.
- If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency care:
-
Hydration and Diet:
- Continue to hydrate yourself with clear fluids. If solid food is tolerated better, opt for bland foods that are easy on the stomach (like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast).
-
Prepare for Upcoming Appointments:
- Write down any questions or concerns to discuss with your doctor during the ultrasound and endoscopy. Documenting your symptoms thoroughly can also help your healthcare team understand your condition better.
-
Avoid irritants:
- Limit or avoid alcohol and smoking/vaping, as these can aggravate gastrointestinal issues and complicate your condition.
-
Rest and Recovery:
- Prioritize rest and try to create a calm environment. If withdrawal symptoms from alcohol are troubling, communicating this to your healthcare team can help them manage your care effectively.
Take this seriously, but remember that rapid changes in your health warrant prompt action. Follow your instincts, and don’t hesitate to seek immediate help if your symptoms escalate before your scheduled procedures. Your health and well-being are a priority.
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