Am I alright?

I have been diagnosed with GERD and esophageal reflux and have had endoscopy tests to keep track of the problem.  I have also been told that the "little flap" going into my stomach doesn't work--stays open all the time. Therefore I get food back in my mouth that I have eaten if I burp.  Tonight I threw up and it was BLACK.  Is this normal or should I worry?

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
Throwing up something black could indicate bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
You need medical attention.
An upper GI endoscopy has to be done to find the source of bleeding and treat it.