Mallory-Weiss Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
متلازمة مالوري فايس
Mallory-Weiss syndrome is a superficial tear near the lower esophagus and stomach that can bleed after forceful vomiting or retching. Vomiting blood requires urgent medical assessment.
What is Mallory-Weiss Syndrome?
This mucosal injury differs from a full-thickness esophageal rupture. Blood color alone cannot determine the cause or severity, even after vomiting stops.
Related reading: Peptic ulcer as another cause of bleeding.
Symptoms
Red blood or coffee-ground material in vomit is typical; black stool may occur. Dizziness or fainting can signal substantial blood loss.
Causes
Pressure from vomiting, retching or severe coughing may tear the lining. Vomiting can have many causes, including illness or alcohol-related episodes.
Risk factors
Forceful retching or vomiting raises suspicion. Liver disease and clotting disorders can worsen bleeding severity. The syndrome can occur without alcohol use.
Diagnosis
Clinicians assess circulation, blood counts and possible bleeding sources. Upper endoscopy helps establish the diagnosis and provide treatment when indicated.
Treatment
Bleeding may stop spontaneously, but observation and treatment require clinical judgment. Fluids, transfusion or endoscopic control may be needed, alongside treatment of vomiting and its cause.
Complications
Blood loss can cause anemia or low blood pressure; occasionally further intervention is needed. Risk depends on ongoing bleeding, coexisting disease and medicines.
Prevention
Seek help for repeated vomiting and avoid excessive alcohol. Do not independently stop prescribed anticoagulants or start anti-inflammatory painkillers; the team reviews their risks during assessment.
When to see a doctor
Vomiting blood or black stool needs urgent care, especially with dizziness or palpitations. Severe chest pain or breathlessness after vomiting may indicate perforation and requires emergency assessment.