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Causes of Passing Out Black Stool

Are you worried about your stools being black? One of the common problems which human undergo today related to their bowel movements is that of the black and tarry stools. This black and tarry stools which has a foul odour can be the result of something benign. Some of the common reasons of black stools is that of one's eating habits or it could be related to the intake of medications.

Children and adults who pass black stools should be worried when this problem persists. Experts say that a serious cause of black stool would be internal bleeding where one would need immediate medical assistance. You should be aware that when the black colour in the stool is from blood, it is known as 'melena'. The main cause of melena is a peptic ulcer disease. However, other causes of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, or even the ascending colon, can result to melena.

The indication of the black stools shows that the blood has been in the body for some time, and that the bleeding is coming from a higher up source in the gastrointestinal tract. Consequently, one should seek immediate medical assistance if the person has abnormally dark stools or any variation in texture or that of stool colour.

Here are some of the causes why you are passing out black stools. If this condition worsens, you need medical assistance.

Indigestion

Indigestion

One of the common causes of black stool is that of indigestion. If you have not digested your food the previous night, it could lead to black stools the following morning.

Spicy food

Spicy food

If you love the taste of spicy food, be sure to get an upset stomach and black stools. It is said that the spices contained in the foods can be one of the reasons for black stools.

Medications

Medications

If you consume a good amount of black licorice, supplements which contain lead or iron pills, it can lead to black stools.

Diet

Diet

There are some foods which cause the onset of black stool. Foods like that of blueberries, beet root and tomatoes can sometimes make the stools appear reddish black in colour.

Cancer

Cancer

The early detectors of colon cancer is that of black stool. It is however important that ones takes the assistance of a doctor before considering it to be that of colon cancer. Colon cancer is often asymptomatic, but it can cause constipation, bowel obstruction, bloody stool and more. It can also be a symptoms for small intestine cancer.

Clotting

Clotting

Another cause of black stools can be due to blood clotting disorders. This disorder increases the risk that dangerous blood clots will form in the intestines

Ulcers

Ulcers

Gastrointestinal ulcers are one of the main reasons for black stool in adults. A gastrointestinal ulcer is a sore in the digestive tract. It affects the lining of one of the organs, sometimes causing bleeding.

Story first published: Monday, July 29, 2013, 14:03 [IST]
Read more about: wellness health cure