Stomach ache and black stool
Updated
Short answer
Stomach ache with black stool can reflect bleeding higher in the digestive tract and should be assessed promptly by a clinician.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Appearance
- Sticky, tar-like black stool is concerning.
What it may mean
Digested blood can make stool black, sticky, and tar-like. Gastritis, Helicobacter Pylori Infection, and peptic ulcer disease are possible causes of upper abdominal pain with this appearance. Iron tablets and dark foods may also darken stool, but cannot safely rule out bleeding.
What to do
Contact urgent medical care today. Report aspirin, anti-inflammatory painkillers, blood thinners, and iron, and do not take extra anti-inflammatory medicines while waiting. Note further stools, vomiting, dizziness, and pain.
Emergency warning signs
Call emergency services for fainting, severe weakness, confusion, fast heartbeat, breathing difficulty, vomiting blood, coffee-ground vomit, or severe abdominal pain. Do not drive if dizzy.
Questions for your doctor
Ask whether bleeding is suspected, which tests may be needed, and how to take usual medicines safely. Ask which changes require emergency care.
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Dubai
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Dubai.
The Court Residence, 39B Street, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
Accepts: Tabby, Tamara
Elite Business Bay Residence - Shop 03 & 04, 34 Marasi Dr - Business Bay - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Tabby
Airport View Building, Al Garhoud, Dubai
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +25 more
IBIS Building, 5th Floor, Unit 5003, Deira, Dubai
Accepts: AXA, Cigna, MetLife, Allianz Care +18 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the UAE health regulators' public licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Can iron darken stool?
Yes, but black tarry stool with pain still needs prompt advice.
What if pain is mild?
Mild pain does not exclude bleeding; contact urgent care.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.