Is This Normal After Biopsies Bright Red Stool ?

Posted on Sun, 1 Nov 2020

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 1 Nov 2020 Answered on

Fri, 23 May 2025 Last reviewed on

Question : It’s been 2 days since my colonoscopy, in which lots of biopsies were taken. I had bright red stool earlier today, however now my stool is black and tarry. Is this normal after biopsies we’re taken? I don’t have a fever or feel weak. Should I go to the er

Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (57 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes if it's black and tarry you should.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Bleeding from upper gastrointestinal tract(like from ulcers in stomach duodenem etc) presents as black tarry stool while bleed from lower gastro intestinal tract presents as fresh blood in stools.

So answer to your query is yes blood(fresh red colored) is normal after biopsy as the site from where tissue is taken acts as a bleeding site but If color is black and tarry you need to consult your Doctor for ruling out any possible upper gastrointestinal bleed.
Thank you!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj