Is Black Stool A Cause For Concern?
bleeding from the upper gastro tract, iron, pepto bismol
Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic
Black stool can have different causes, the main ones being :(1) presence of blood from the upper gastrointestinal tract- blood from the esophagus, stomach and small intestines may cause black stool because it is altered as it travels through the gastrointestinal tract
This can occur if there is a history of reflux or ulcer in the stomach or use of NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, cataflam, aspirin) or other blood thinners (warfarin) or bleeding disorder or infection
Blood from the large intestines appears red
(2)iron supplements can also cause black stool
(3)pepto bismol can also cause the stool to darken
it would be best to see your doctor so that the cause can be determined. This would involve review of symptoms , known illnesses and medications. Physical examination of the abdomen would also be required.
Further investigations would depend on the findings
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions