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What Causes Black Colored Stools?
Question: I have noticed that recently when I move my bowels, the stools are black. Please advise what could be the causes of this.
Brief Answer:
iron supplements, blood
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Black stool is usually due to either medication or the presence of blood in the stool.
Blood in the stool (melena) is normally foul smelling however so if there is no odor then this is not likely the cause though it should still be ruled out by stool analysis.
If you are currently using any supplements that contain iron or medications with bismuth (eg peptobismol).
If you are using one of these meds then discontinuation should cause the stool to return to a normal color.
If this is not the case then it would be best to see your doctor who may suggest a stool analysis to go the lab.
Imaging may also be needed depending on the results.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
iron supplements, blood
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Black stool is usually due to either medication or the presence of blood in the stool.
Blood in the stool (melena) is normally foul smelling however so if there is no odor then this is not likely the cause though it should still be ruled out by stool analysis.
If you are currently using any supplements that contain iron or medications with bismuth (eg peptobismol).
If you are using one of these meds then discontinuation should cause the stool to return to a normal color.
If this is not the case then it would be best to see your doctor who may suggest a stool analysis to go the lab.
Imaging may also be needed depending on the results.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
I take Coumadin, could this cause black stools?
Brief Answer:
yes can cause black stool if causing small amt of bleeding
Detailed Answer:
HI
Yes, the coumadin can cause black stools if it causes a small amount of bleeding in the stomach or intestines.
When this blood enters the contents of the stomach/ intestines, by the time it is passed out , it turns the stool black.
Please feel free to ask any other questions
yes can cause black stool if causing small amt of bleeding
Detailed Answer:
HI
Yes, the coumadin can cause black stools if it causes a small amount of bleeding in the stomach or intestines.
When this blood enters the contents of the stomach/ intestines, by the time it is passed out , it turns the stool black.
Please 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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