What Causes Black Stools ?

Posted on Fri, 22 Jul 2011

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

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : having black stools,tarry, i did eat licorous,it just started not having bowl movements i am a retired RN age 71,fem. no pain no distention stress present with family situation, and ankle adema sometimes muscle spasms for many years in legs veracositys present other wise active lately taking medications lipator ,zoloft, aricept, for memory memory could any of these contribute, had gastric by pass 10 yrs ago thank you for your advise

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rakhi Tayal (-5 hours later)

Hello,

Thanks for writing to us.

Black tarry stools specially with a history of internal bleeding in the upper intestines, may be due to ulcers or worm infestations or any cancerous lesion.

You need to have investigations like endoscopy to know the location of the pathology under the guidance of a gastroenterologist.

Bleeding peptic ulcers is the commonest cause which can be precipitated by anxiety and stress.

Try to remain relaxed and get an appointment with your gastroenterologist as soon as possible.

The medications you are currently under now, do not seem to cause this effect. You can continue with them as well.

I hope my answer and recommendations are adequate and helpful. Waiting for your further follow up queries if any.

Wishing you good health.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E