Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Black Tarry Stools?
Posted on
Wed, 3 Feb 2016
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Wed, 3 Feb 2016
Answered on
Sat, 19 Mar 2016
Last reviewed on
Question : passing black tarry stool
how long does this take to get reply?
how long does this take to get reply?
Brief Answer:
Most likely there is bleeding from upper GI tract.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
Black tarry stools usually means that there is bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract - the esophagus or stomach - and it's usually the stomach. The acid in the stomach changes the blood to this appearance.
If you have a gastoenterologist, you should call him or her tonight (or his/her call group) to report this symptom. You should also go to an urgent care clinic or ER where they can examine you and check a CBC to see if you are losing a lot of blood.
Some medications can give the stool a black appearance, such as Pepto Bismol, but not a tarry appearance.
Most likely there is bleeding from upper GI tract.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
Black tarry stools usually means that there is bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract - the esophagus or stomach - and it's usually the stomach. The acid in the stomach changes the blood to this appearance.
If you have a gastoenterologist, you should call him or her tonight (or his/her call group) to report this symptom. You should also go to an urgent care clinic or ER where they can examine you and check a CBC to see if you are losing a lot of blood.
Some medications can give the stool a black appearance, such as Pepto Bismol, but not a tarry appearance.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
