Can red wine cause black stool?

Black stool that is sticky, tar-like or unusually strong-smelling can be melaena, caused by blood altered in the upper digestive tract. A dark drink can make the colour seem confusing, but it should not explain away a stool with these features.

Gastritis and a peptic ulcer are possible sources of upper digestive bleeding. Helicobacter Pylori Infection can contribute to inflammation and ulcer disease. Iron products and some other medicines can darken stool without bleeding, so an assessment may be needed to tell the difference.

Look at the stool in good light and note whether it is sticky or tarry, but do not handle it unnecessarily. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if it is genuinely black. Share the timing, any recent alcohol, all medicines and supplements, and symptoms such as upper-abdominal discomfort or nausea. Avoid self-treating with anti-inflammatory painkillers unless prescribed.

Emergency care is needed when black stool occurs with fainting, dizziness, marked weakness, confusion, a fast heartbeat, breathlessness, severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood or coffee-ground material. These signs can indicate active or substantial bleeding.

Ask whether your stool description suggests melaena, whether your medicines could darken it, and whether tests are needed for bleeding, gastritis, ulcer disease or Helicobacter Pylori Infection. Mention any previous ulcer or digestive symptoms.