What are some potential symptoms that may indicate a gastrointestinal bleed?

Symptoms indicative of a gastrointestinal bleed typically include vomiting blood, also known as hematemesis, and abdominal pain. Vomiting blood can occur due to the presence of bleeding within the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as from ulcers or varices. The accompanying abdominal pain, which may vary in intensity and presentation, can arise from the underlying causes of the bleed or from irritations and complications.

The other choices present symptoms that are not characteristic of gastrointestinal bleeding. For example, headache and skin rash are more commonly associated with other medical conditions, such as infections or allergic reactions. Similarly, a persistent cough and fever might indicate respiratory infections, while joint pain and dizziness could be related to musculoskeletal or neurological issues, but not typically to a gastrointestinal bleed. Hence, the combination of vomiting blood and abdominal pain is a clear indication of a potential gastrointestinal bleed.