Final answer:
Mallory-Weiss syndrome is characterized by bleeding from a tear in the lining of the esophagus, while Boerhaave's syndrome is a rare condition characterized by a rupture of the esophagus. Both conditions have distinct symptoms and can be serious if left untreated.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mallory-Weiss syndrome is characterized by bleeding from a tear in the lining of the esophagus. Symptoms include vomiting blood (hematemesis), black, tarry stools (melena), and abdominal pain. It is often associated with heavy alcohol use or vomiting due to other causes like intense coughing or retching.
Boerhaave's syndrome is a rare condition characterized by a rupture of the esophagus. Symptoms include severe chest pain that worsens with swallowing or coughing, difficulty breathing, and subcutaneous emphysema (air trapped under the skin). It is often caused by forceful vomiting or retching, and if left untreated, can be fatal.