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Black Tarry Stools

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 12/5/2008 4:30 PM (GMT 0)

Hi,

I was wondering how to know the difference between really dark stools & black tarry stools that indicate a problem?  I have been in a flare for about a month now.  The past 2 days I have not had bright red blood but instead more of a blackish substance on my stool/toliet paper (Graphic, I know)!  Can anyone tell me what this may be a sign or indication of or their personal experiences with this?  Or am I just being paranoid?

Thanks, Jennifer

Posted 12/5/2008 5:00 PM (GMT 0)
Well, have you been eating anything that would give your stools a dark tone? Taken any Pepto Bismol? These might be reasons your stools are darker. But if you can't think of something that would have made them change color, I suggest that you call your doc and mention that this is a concern.
Posted 12/5/2008 5:02 PM (GMT 0)
I've tried to think of something I could have eaten or done differently, but I can't think of anything.  I've never experienced my stool looking like this, so it seems a little odd.

Posted 12/5/2008 7:16 PM (GMT 0)
I had that this earlier this year and brought it up to my GI. He said basically keep an eye on it and if it persists to let me know. He never did tell me what it could be an indication of but he did mention that it possibly could be old blood mixed in the stool.
Posted 12/5/2008 7:22 PM (GMT 0)
Yeah, I had some similar stools a while back, and was told by my GI that it was likely older blood. It may be a sign that the bleeding is tapering off right now if you'd been have lots of fresh blood before - certainly hope so for your sake.
Posted 12/5/2008 7:54 PM (GMT 0)
It's typically a sign of bleeding from higher up in the intestinal tract (usually the small intestine), are you taking Pred? Pred can cause black tarry stools, you really should mention any changes like that to your GI.

:)
Posted 12/6/2008 3:48 AM (GMT 0)
I'm not currently on pred...Thanks for all of your input, I'm going to be calling my doctor!
Posted 12/6/2008 4:10 AM (GMT 0)
Iron suppliments can make 'em black

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