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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Black Coloured Stool?

What can cause black stool. I am a kidney patient. They have already checked for blood in the stool and there is none. I have had this symptom for many years with no apparent reason.The stool is usually of normal consistency (not tar-like or diarrhea). Thank you...
Mon, 20 Mar 2017
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi, thanks for your question. I'm glad to help.

Black stools are mostly indicative of upper gastro-intestinal bleeds. However, in the absence of blood in the stool, as you noted, it is most likely from other causes such as taking iron supplements and bismuth-containing drugs such as pepto-bismol.

It is nothing to worry about, as long as there is no concomitant altered bowel habits, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

I hope I have answered your question.

Best wishes.
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What Causes Black Coloured Stool?

Hi, thanks for your question. I m glad to help. Black stools are mostly indicative of upper gastro-intestinal bleeds. However, in the absence of blood in the stool, as you noted, it is most likely from other causes such as taking iron supplements and bismuth-containing drugs such as pepto-bismol. It is nothing to worry about, as long as there is no concomitant altered bowel habits, abdominal pain, and vomiting. I hope I have answered your question. Best wishes.