Black Vomit??? - Acid Reflux / GERD Message Board

FlorenceC · 07-31-2006, 07:29 AM

Hello. I had a barium swallow done a couple of weeks ago and the "confirmed" what I already knew, that I had acid reflux. Well, saturday night, I felt fine, but suddenly started throwing up. I must've thrown up like 6 times, and it was BLACK, like tar. I've NEVER thrown up black before and I'm really freaked out. I called and made an appt. today for 2:00, but I was wondering if anyone has had this happen to them before and what was the cause. When I had the swallow done, and my doctors called me with the results, they acted as though my reflux wasn't that bad so I'm confused. I hadn't eaten or drank anything that would make my vomit that dark of a color. I'm just worried that something else is going on in there and the doctors are kinda just shrugging it off as basic reflux. I've had reflux for years, and I've been popping Tums and Pepcid ac like they were going out of style. The first time I went to the Drs complaining of reflux, the lady just gave me a couple sample packets of Pepcid, like it was no big deal. I'm starting to feel like I should make an appt somewhere else. I don't know what to do . . . any advice would be appreciated.

kerri0500 · 07-31-2006, 11:45 AM

please let us know what is going on with you! perhaps an ulcer?

mackey73 · 07-31-2006, 11:56 AM

I believe black, tarry vomit--or stool--is due to the presence of blood that has been "digested," and therefore changed from its otherwise red colour. If the blood was originating from your esophagus, however, it'd still be red.

In any event, you really ought to see your ent at once. it sounds like a bleeding duodenal ulcer.

ozzybug · 07-31-2006, 12:36 PM

I totally agree with mackey-
the black vomit is usually a sign of digested blood. You did the right thing by getting in with your doctor. Do you by chance have bleeing ulcers? That can deffinately cause what is happening right now.

Good Luck, and let us know what the doctor says.

Lezlee

taape · 07-31-2006, 07:40 PM

I hoe you've been seen by your doctor by now. Let us know what they said. I would go to the emergency room if it happens again but hopefully it won't.