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Why Have I Had Black And Tarry Stools For Over Two Days?
Question: For 2 days I have had black and tarry stools. What does that mean?
Brief Answer:
It can be upper GI bleed.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Generally, blood coming from higher levels (stomach and small bowel) converts into a dark coal black color due to the changes the blood has in the bowel.
Have you ever had a endoscopy done? Initially a CBC would be a good test to be done if you suspect bleeding to see if you are developing anemia as a complication of bleeding and need treatment for it or not.
So to conclude:
1. We need to be sure you are bleeding or not- a stool test like fecal occult blood test and or stool microscopy for blood will help in this.
2. If it is confirmed that you are bleeding then you will need a endoscopy to find the cause of it.
I hope I was helpful. Thanks!
Regards
It can be upper GI bleed.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Generally, blood coming from higher levels (stomach and small bowel) converts into a dark coal black color due to the changes the blood has in the bowel.
Have you ever had a endoscopy done? Initially a CBC would be a good test to be done if you suspect bleeding to see if you are developing anemia as a complication of bleeding and need treatment for it or not.
So to conclude:
1. We need to be sure you are bleeding or not- a stool test like fecal occult blood test and or stool microscopy for blood will help in this.
2. If it is confirmed that you are bleeding then you will need a endoscopy to find the cause of it.
I hope I was helpful. Thanks!
Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng
Answered by
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