What Causes Black Stool?

Posted on Mon, 9 Jan 2017

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

Mon, 9 Jan 2017 Answered on

Wed, 1 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I've noticed that some of my pooop loooks like there is abit of blacks in them . I cant tell if it is tarry black . So i think its been like that for the last 2 weeks ? I have history of gastritis ? I did has improper meal for a few days as i was overseas on holiday . then i get this stomach pain when i skip a meal. I did feel bloated a few days ago but last two days it has gone down and I feel better but my poop still has abit of black ? should i be concerned? I am planing to pay a visit to my GP soon as my meds are finished.

Answered by Dr. Rahul Tawde (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Not really

Detailed Answer:
Hello, Thank you for posting your question on HealthcareMagic .
Black stool indicates blood it actually means old collected blood which comes out .
But usually it is tarry black and foul smelling as you mentioned.
Just specks of black is not much of a worry ,especially with a background of gastritis and improper meals.
I would recommend you to start taking Tab Pantoprazole 40mg twice daily half an hour before food.
However Gasterointestinal bleeding has to be ruled out so see your GP as scheduled.
But if symptoms get worse you could see a gasteroenterologist.
Avoid spicy and oily food and maintain timing of your meals
Hope this helps
Best wishes

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng