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Dear Ask The Doctor: I had diarrhea for the last few days but seem to be over it. However, although solid, now my stool is very black. What does this mean?
Dear Karen: Black discolouration of the stool can often be a side-effect of oral medication, for example iron preparations may result in black stools and bismuth (Pepto-Bismol®) may result in grayish, black stools. The presence of a black tarry foul smelling stool may indicate bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract. In addition to abdominal pain this can be secondary to peptic ulceration and bleeding. If you are not taking any medication at this time, and your symptoms are persisting, further investigation is warranted with your family physician. |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 26 July 2010 )
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