Black Stools
Dark, tarry stools that usually indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract.
Conditions associated with black stools
The following conditions have been associated with black stools in medical literature. This is informational and not a diagnosis.
Colon Cancer
Cancer of the colon or rectum, often developing from polyps, which can cause changes in bowel habits and blood...
Colorectal Cancer
Cancer of the colon or rectum. Screening can detect it early when treatment is most effective....
Peptic Ulcer Disease
Open sores on the stomach or duodenum lining, often caused by H. pylori infection or NSAID use, causing burnin...
Stomach Cancer
Cancer of the stomach lining, which can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and unintended weight loss....
Tests providers may use to investigate black stools
When investigating black stools, a healthcare provider may order one or more of the following laboratory tests. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
Alpha-Fetoprotein Afp Tumor Marker Test
This blood test determines Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP or a-Fetoprotein) levels....
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Cancer & Tumor Marker Tests
Fast, easy and affordable cancer lab tests that do not require insurance or a doctor's referral. Simply order ...
Fecal Calprotectin
Helps distinguish inflammatory bowel disease from irritable bowel syndrome....
H. Pylori Igg Testing
This stool test is used to help diagnose H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) bacteria infections and/or to determi...
H. pylori Test
Detects Helicobacter pylori infection associated with ulcers and gastritis....
Occult Blood Fecal Test
This test, also known as a FIT or iFOBT, detects the presence of occult (hidden) blood in fecal matter....
Ovarian Cancer Blood Test
The Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) test is used to evaluate the blood for CA-125, a cancer tumor marker. CA-125 i...
Symptoms commonly seen alongside black stools
Bloating
A feeling of fullness, pressure, or swelling in the abdomen, often related to gas, digestion, or fluid retenti...
Change in Bowel Habits
A persistent change in the frequency or consistency of bowel movements, which should be evaluated....
Fatigue
A subjective feeling of tiredness characterized by a lack of energy and motivation....
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Anemia caused by low iron levels, which can be a sign of bleeding or poor absorption....
Upper Abdominal Pain
Pain in the upper central area of the abdomen, which can be related to the stomach, esophagus, pancreas, or ga...
Weight loss
Reduction of total body weight....
When to seek care
Seek care from a qualified healthcare provider if black stools is severe, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by concerning symptoms. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the symptom black stools mean?
Black Stools is a health sign or symptom described in medical literature. Dark, tarry stools that usually indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract.
Which conditions are associated with black stools?
Black Stools has been reported in association with 4 conditions in the medical literature we index, including Colon Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Peptic Ulcer Disease, Stomach Cancer. These associations do not mean you have any of these conditions.
Should I see a doctor about black stools?
You should discuss any persistent or concerning symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider. This website does not provide diagnosis. If you have severe symptoms or signs of a medical emergency, seek care immediately.