What should you know about really black stool?

Stool that is truly black, sticky, and tar-like may contain digested blood from the stomach or upper intestine. Gastritis and a Peptic Ulcer are possible causes, including irritation linked with Helicobacter Pylori Infection or certain medicines. Dark stool can also follow iron tablets or strongly coloured foods, but appearance alone cannot safely establish the cause. Note the texture, smell, timing, and any new medicine or supplement.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly for new black or tarry stool, even if you feel reasonably well. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice, but tell the clinician about pain relievers, blood thinners, iron, alcohol use, and previous stomach problems. Keep a record of repeated episodes and associated symptoms. If you are assessed, the clinician may ask about bleeding, examine you, and arrange tests based on your symptoms.

Go to emergency care for vomiting blood or material like coffee grounds, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, rapid heartbeat, severe abdominal pain, or black stool with dizziness. These can accompany significant blood loss. Urgent help is also needed if black stool continues or appears after a medicine that raises bleeding risk.

Ask whether the colour and texture could represent digested blood, which medicines may irritate your stomach, and whether you need testing for an ulcer, gastritis, or Helicobacter Pylori Infection. Bring a list of medicines and supplements.