The color of internal bleeding isn't a single color; it depends on several factors, including the location of the bleed, the amount of blood, and how long the bleeding has been occurring. Visible signs of internal bleeding may present in various colors.
Here's a breakdown:
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Initially Red: Fresh blood that is actively bleeding will be red.
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Dark Brown/Black: As blood is digested or sits for a period, it changes color. Blood in the digestive tract, for example, can appear dark brown or even black, often resembling coffee grounds, if vomited. This is mentioned in the reference: "Vomiting blood, which might be red or might be dark brown and look like coffee grounds."
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Black, Tarry Stool: Blood that has been digested as it passes through the intestinal tract may result in black, tarry stools.
It's important to understand that internal bleeding can be difficult to detect without medical tests. The color changes described above typically apply to overt bleeding—bleeding that's visible (e.g., in vomit or stool). When bleeding is internal and not readily apparent, you won't see these color changes directly. Bruising, which can result from internal bleeding under the skin, will change colors over time (red, purple, blue, green, yellow).
| Symptom | Possible Color | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Vomiting Blood | Red, Dark Brown | Fresh blood is red; digested blood resembles coffee grounds. |
| Black, Tarry Stool | Black | Indicates digested blood in the stool. |
