What Causes Black Tarry Stool?

Posted on Mon, 14 Sep 2015

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

Mon, 14 Sep 2015 Answered on

Tue, 6 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : 3 months ago, I had black tarry stool for 3 days n it went away. I haven't had one since. Should I go see a dr?
About 3 months ago, I had a black tarry stool for 3 days. It went away and a week later I had my period. I don't have it anymore, and also, I did take a test to check my blood count (unrelated) and everything came out good. I have bad indegestion, and I was reading into it, and I noticed that black tarry stools are an issue. Should I go see a dr?

Answered by Dr. Amit Jain (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes you see a doctor

Detailed Answer:
Hello! Thanks for putting your query in HCM. I am a Gastroenterologist (DM).

Black tarry stool is due to bleeding from gastrointestinal tract which is an alarming feature. I will advise you to visit a Gastroenterologist who will advise you endoscopy and colonoscopy to see for the cause of bleed. It is good to hear that it has resolved spontaneously. But still you need to be examined.

I hope I have answered your query and this will help you. If you have any further query I will be happy to answer that too. Remain in touch and get-well soon.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Amit Jain (40 minutes later)

Thank you for taking the time and answering my question. Is it normal for it to stop on its own like that and also, is it something I need immediate attention or can it wait a month?

Answered by Dr. Amit Jain (47 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Its not an emergency since it has stopped

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back. 90% of the gastrointestinal bleed resolve spontaneously, nothing abnormal in that. Its not emergency, take your time. If you do not have any further query , you can close the discussion and rate the answer. Wish you a good health.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad