what does it mean when you throw up blood

Hello
i have had bulimerexia for 6 years. Last week i throw up blood when i was attempting to purge breakfast. This has never happened to me before, and it only happened that one time since last week. However i was wondering what caused it.
Thanks
Rach

[Patricia Pitts, PhD]

Dear Rach878,

Purging blood can be a tear in the esophageous or it can be a fatal (internal bleeding).  If you purge blood, you want to go to an Urgent Care Clinic or Emergency at your nearest hospital.
Best,
Dr. Patricia Pitts
The Bella Vita
Los Angeles, CA

[Rach878]

That happened 2 1/2 weeks ago. It hasn't happened since so could there still be something wrong with me? And if it's not internal, what happens when you tear your esophageous?
Thank you
Rach878

[Patricia Pitts, PhD]

Dear Rach878,

The emergency is at the time of purging.  If you throw up blood again, please go to your nearest Urgent Care or ER.  

When you tear your esophagus:  superficial tears can be self-healing, yet still need to check the upper digestive system for bleeding.  There are also tears between esophagus and stomach, a rupture of the esophagus (25% die), a rupture of the stomach.  The latter two cause acute and abrupt pain necessitating a visit to ER.

Blood in your vomit is not a good sign.  Better safe than sorry.

Visit the bella vita website for more on bulimia.

Best,

Dr Patricia Pitts
Los Angeles, CA
The Bella Vita