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What Causes Black Stools?

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Posted on Mon, 19 Jun 2017
Question: I have black stools and I am not sure what that means.
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (23 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
different possible causes

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Black stool can be due to : (1) the use of pepto bismol or similar products

(2)the use of iron supplements

(3)bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract- stomach and upper small intestines

AS the blood passes through the intestines , it changes and gives the stool a black appearance. Bleeding can occur : (1)if there is a history of severe reflux or ulcer, (2)using medications such as aspirin/ibuprofen/aleve etc,
(3) anticoagulants such as warfarin
(4)bleeding disorder

If you are not using iron supplements or pepto bismol, then you should see your doctor to determine if a bleed is present
It can be minor in a lot of cases.

In addition to examination, you may need your blood count checked to see if it has fallen

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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What Causes Black Stools?

Brief Answer: different possible causes Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Black stool can be due to : (1) the use of pepto bismol or similar products (2)the use of iron supplements (3)bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract- stomach and upper small intestines AS the blood passes through the intestines , it changes and gives the stool a black appearance. Bleeding can occur : (1)if there is a history of severe reflux or ulcer, (2)using medications such as aspirin/ibuprofen/aleve etc, (3) anticoagulants such as warfarin (4)bleeding disorder If you are not using iron supplements or pepto bismol, then you should see your doctor to determine if a bleed is present It can be minor in a lot of cases. In addition to examination, you may need your blood count checked to see if it has fallen I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions