Why Is Your Poop Black and Tarry?

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Black and tarry stools are commonly associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be caused by conditions like peptic ulcers or the use of medications such as aspirin. If you experience this symptom, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Black and tarry stools, medically known as melaena, can be alarming and often indicate underlying health issues. This condition is typically associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, but there can be other causes as well.

Key Insights

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Black and tarry stools are often a result of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. This can be due to various conditions such as peptic ulcers, gastritis, or esophageal varices2.
• Medication Side Effects: The use of certain medications, such as aspirin, can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, which in turn causes black and tarry stools2.