Which of the following is a sign of internal bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract?

• A. Hematoma
• B. Ecchymosis
• C. Hematemesis
• D. Hemoptysis

Answer: (C)

Bleeding inside the digestive tract often shows up as vomiting blood, which is called hematemesis. When upper GI sources such as the esophagus, stomach, or proximal small intestine bleed, the blood is expelled through the mouth, signaling a potentially serious internal bleed and possible significant blood loss. The blood in the vomit may appear bright red or resemble coffee grounds if it’s partially digested. The other options involve bleeding in different areas: a hematoma is a collection of blood under the skin from tissue injury, ecchymosis is a bruise under the skin, and hemoptysis is blood that is coughed up from the lungs.