What is the medical term for an excessive flow of blood?

The medical term for an excessive flow of blood is hemorrhage. This term specifically refers to the loss of a large amount of blood from the circulatory system, which can occur either internally or externally. Hemorrhage can be a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention, especially if it is significant enough to affect blood pressure or overall organ function.

In contrast, hematoma refers to a collection of blood outside of blood vessels, typically due to a rupture of vessels, which causes localized swelling. Edema describes the swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues, rather than a flow of blood. Ischemia refers to a restriction in blood supply to tissues, which can lead to tissue damage due to a lack of oxygen, but it does not pertain to an excessive flow of blood. Understanding these terms helps in comprehending various medical conditions and the appropriate responses to them.