Gastric Tumor Bleeding Symptoms And What You Need To Know
Gastric tumor bleeding can manifest through several key symptoms, the most common being hematemesis (vomiting blood) and melena (black, tarry stools). Since the stomach is part of the upper digestive tract, vomiting blood is often the primary indicator of internal bleeding. However, in cases of minor bleeding, patients may not experience hematemesis at all and may only notice melena, which can be confirmed through a positive fecal occult blood test.
It is important to recognize that approximately 5% of gastric tumor patients suffer from severe, uncontrollable bleeding, which requires immediate medical intervention such as endoscopy or surgery. The color of the vomited blood can vary depending on the severity and duration of the bleed. In acute cases with a larger volume of blood loss, the vomit may appear bright or deep red. If the blood remains in the stomach for an extended period, it often turns into a coffee-ground appearance and typically does not clot.
Understanding these symptoms can help in early detection and prompt treatment, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes. If you or someone you know experiences unexplained black stools or vomiting blood, seeking immediate medical attention is highly recommended.