question-icon

What Causes Black Tarry Stool?

default
Posted on Sat, 13 May 2017
Question: I am undergoing treatment for vitamin deficiencies of B12 and D. I have had a recent colonoscopy that was clean. Tissues taken for biopsy were benign. Today, I had a thick, tarry black stool. Can that be coming from the vitamin deficiencies?Will it be ok to wait until Monday to see a medical professional about the bloody stool?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Grzegorz Stanko (27 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
You should not wait for it.

Detailed Answer:
Hello.

Thank you for the query.

The black tarry stool is a sign of stomach or small intestine bleeding. As you have also B12 deficiency, stomach inflammation or even a tumor is possible.

You should not wait for it. ER visit is advisable. Gastroscopy should be done as soon as possible.

Hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Grzegorz Stanko

General Surgeon

Practicing since :2008

Answered : 5798 Questions

Ask me a question
premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Ask a Gastroenterologist
Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
backtotop2
What Causes Black Tarry Stool?

Brief Answer: You should not wait for it. Detailed Answer: Hello. Thank you for the query. The black tarry stool is a sign of stomach or small intestine bleeding. As you have also B12 deficiency, stomach inflammation or even a tumor is possible. You should not wait for it. ER visit is advisable. Gastroscopy should be done as soon as possible. Hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards.