In this guide
6 min readSymptom Guide
Black stool can sometimes happen from iron tablets or certain foods, but tar-like black stool may indicate bleeding from the stomach or upper intestine. It should not be ignored.
Key Takeaways
- Iron tablets or bismuth medicines
- Certain dark foods
- Stomach or duodenal ulcer bleeding
- Variceal bleeding in liver disease
- Bleeding from vascular lesions
Common causes
The cause depends on stool appearance, smell, medicines and associated symptoms.
- Iron tablets or bismuth medicines
- Certain dark foods
- Stomach or duodenal ulcer bleeding
- Variceal bleeding in liver disease
- Bleeding from vascular lesions
Emergency warning signs
Black stool with weakness or bleeding symptoms can be serious.
- Dizziness, fainting or sweating
- Vomiting blood
- Fast pulse or severe weakness
- Known liver cirrhosis
- Low hemoglobin or repeated black stools
Tests that may be needed
The doctor may advise CBC, stool testing, liver tests and upper GI endoscopy depending on stability and symptoms.
What not to do
Do not keep taking painkillers, alcohol or blood thinners without medical advice if bleeding is suspected.