Swallowing blood, whether from a nosebleed, a minor cut inside the mouth, or after a dental procedure, is a common occurrence. While unsettling, small amounts of swallowed blood are generally not a cause for serious concern. This article explains how the body processes ingested blood and what symptoms might arise.
How the Body Processes Swallowed Blood
When blood enters the digestive system, the body processes it much like any other protein-rich substance. The acidic environment of the stomach begins to break down the blood components, separating them into elements such as proteins and iron.
The presence of blood in the stomach, especially in larger quantities, can irritate the stomach lining. This irritation often leads to mild stomach upset, nausea, or even vomiting as a reflex to expel the undigested blood. After the stomach, the partially digested blood moves into the small intestine, where iron from the blood is absorbed, similar to how dietary iron is processed. Components of the blood that the body cannot use are eventually eliminated, contributing to changes in stool color and consistency as they pass through the digestive tract.
Common Symptoms and Their Significance
Swallowing blood can lead to various observable symptoms, the nature and severity of which often depend on the amount of blood ingested and how long it remains in the digestive tract. Nausea is a frequent immediate effect, as the stomach reacts to the presence of blood. If a significant amount of blood is swallowed, vomiting may occur, and the vomit might appear dark brown or black with a granular texture, often described as “coffee grounds.” This “coffee ground” appearance indicates that the blood has been exposed to stomach acid and partially digested.
Another common symptom is a change in stool appearance. Swallowed blood can cause stools to become dark, black, and tarry, a condition known as melena. The black color and characteristic strong odor of melena result from hemoglobin in the blood being altered by digestive enzymes and intestinal bacteria as it travels through the gastrointestinal tract. Melena signifies bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, or upper small intestine, where the blood has had time to be digested. Abdominal discomfort, such as cramping or a feeling of fullness, can also accompany these symptoms due to the irritation of the digestive system.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
While minor instances of swallowing blood are harmless, certain signs and symptoms warrant prompt medical attention. It is important to seek professional evaluation if you experience persistent or heavy bleeding that does not subside with basic first aid. Vomiting large amounts of blood, especially if it is bright red or appears as “coffee grounds,” is a serious indicator that requires immediate medical assessment.
Additional symptoms that signal a need for urgent care include severe abdominal pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness. These symptoms might indicate a significant volume of blood loss or a more serious underlying condition. If there are signs of shock, such as rapid or shallow breathing, cold, clammy, or pale skin, or confusion, immediate emergency medical help is necessary. Consulting a healthcare professional is also advisable if the source of the bleeding is unknown or if the bleeding continues without a clear cause.