May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Acid Reflux Bloody stool
Bloody stool |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: Why would my wife have blood in her stool and we believe she may be pregant Dear John: I understand your concern about your wife’s condition. Blood in stool has particular characteristics that might help differentiate its origin. Black stool usually means that the blood is coming from the upper GI tract like the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. Blood will typically look like tar after it has been exposed to the body's digestive juices. On the other hand, bright red blood usually suggests that the blood is coming from the lower part of the GI tract (large bowel, rectum, or anus). Hemorrhoids and diverticulosis are the most common causes of lower GI bleeding. If your wife suffers from constipation, the latter would need to be ruled out with her PCP with a simple detailed history, examination and a stool sample. Also, if her menstrual period is late and that is the reasoning why she thinks pregnancy is a possibility, I would suggest her also to take a blood pregnancy test, thyroid conditions can also present irregular menstruation and since your wife is taking Synthroid , we will need to rule out pregnancy too. I wish her a prompt recovery. |
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| Last Updated ( Monday, 18 October 2010 ) |
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