What Causes Black Bowel Movements?

Posted on Mon, 27 Oct 2014

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

Mon, 27 Oct 2014 Answered on

Thu, 20 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : For about a week now, when having a bowel movement, the stools are black. What is the cause for this?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
The main cause is stomach bleeding....

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you asking HCM.
I am Dr.Klerida Shehu gastroenterologist.
The main cause of black stools is stomach bleeding(gastritis, ulcer) especially if you have soft stools.
Other causes are change in diet or the use of iron supplements.
Please consult your physician as soon as possible or go to ER to perform exams like:
1. blood work
2.fecal blood occult exam
3.upper endoscopy
If you have other concern I would be glad to asisst you further.

Wishing you all the best!
Dr.Klerida

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj