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Stomach ache and black stool

Where Black Stools is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline
Illustration: Where Black Stools is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline

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 Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City
See every listing in Abu Dhabi

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 DHA, DOH and MOHAP 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.