What black tarry stool may indicate

When blood is exposed to digestive juices, it may turn stool black and sticky rather than bright red. This is called melaena. A peptic ulcer, gastritis, or Helicobacter pylori infection can be among the conditions associated with upper digestive bleeding. Dark stool after iron or bismuth is a different possibility, yet a new unexplained change should not be self-diagnosed from colour alone.

Take note of the stool texture, smell, timing, and number of episodes. Make a list of prescription medicines, pain relievers, iron, and stomach remedies. Contact a clinician promptly for unexplained black tarry stool, particularly if it repeats. Assessment may include questions about bleeding symptoms and tests chosen according to your examination and history.

Get emergency care if black stool is accompanied by dizziness, fainting, unusual drowsiness, rapid breathing, severe pain, repeated vomiting, or vomit containing blood or coffee-ground material. These symptoms may mean the body is being affected by blood loss. Sit or lie down if light-headed and avoid travelling alone.

Ask what could account for the stool change, whether a stomach infection or ulcer needs checking, and whether any current medicine should be reviewed. Mention previous ulcers, indigestion, alcohol intake, recent illness, and every non-prescription product you use.