Black poop can be alarming, but it usually isn’t a cause for panic. In most cases, it’s a sign that something you’ve eaten is naturally coloring your stool. But in some cases, particularly if black stool is accompanied by other symptoms, it can signify a more serious medical condition that requires prompt medical care.
What causes black poop?
There are a few possible causes of black poop:
- Foods – Foods naturally dark in color can cause black poop. These include:
- Blueberries
- Black licorice
- Iron supplements
- Activated charcoal
- Bleeding in the upper GI tract – Conditions affecting the upper GI tract, like stomach ulcers or cancer, can cause black poop if they lead to bleeding.
- Bleeding in the lower GI tract – Conditions affecting the lower GI tract, like hemorrhoids or diverticulosis, can cause black poop if they cause rectal bleeding.
Is black poop always a cause for concern?
In most cases, black poop on its own isn’t cause for concern. Here are some instances when it’s usually benign:
- If it’s a one-time occurrence after eating something that could cause it, like blueberries.
- If you’re currently taking iron supplements or activated charcoal.
- If you have a condition like hemorrhoids that can cause rectal bleeding.
However, if black stool occurs repeatedly or is accompanied by other symptoms, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition that needs medical attention.
Red flag symptoms
You should see a doctor if black poop occurs along with any of these red flag symptoms:
| Symptom | Possible cause |
|---|---|
| Fatigue | Anemia from bleeding |
| Shortness of breath | Anemia from bleeding |
| Abdominal pain | Ulcers, bleeding disorders, cancers |
| Unexplained weight loss | Cancers, celiac disease, IBD |
| Fever | Infection, IBD, cancers |
These symptoms can signify an underlying condition like an ulcer, bleeding disorder, infection, or even colorectal cancer. It’s important to get checked out promptly if black poop occurs along with concerning symptoms.
When should you see a doctor?
Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if:
- Black poop persists for more than 2 days
- You have red flag symptoms along with black poop
- Black poop occurs repeatedly over time
- You have severe abdominal pain with black stool
Seeking prompt care is crucial, as some of the possible causes of black stool, like colorectal cancer, are time sensitive. Early treatment leads to better outcomes.
What will the doctor do?
To diagnose the cause of black poop, the doctor may:
- Ask about your symptoms and medical history
- Do a physical exam
- Order blood tests to look for anemia and infection
- Do imaging tests like a CT scan of your abdomen
- Perform an endoscopy to view your upper GI tract
- Do a colonoscopy to examine your lower GI tract
Based on the results of your evaluation, your doctor will determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
How is the cause of black poop treated?
Treatment depends on the cause, but may include:
- Medications – Antibiotics for infection, steroids for inflammatory bowel disease
- Endoscopic procedures – To stop internal bleeding, remove polyps or tumors
- Surgery – For severe GI bleeding, cancer, bowel obstruction
- Lifestyle modifications – Diet changes, managing conditions like hemorrhoids
Prompt treatment can greatly improve outcomes for serious causes like cancer. Even for benign causes, appropriate care can ease discomfort and prevent complications.
Can black poop be prevented?
In some cases, black poop can be prevented by:
- Eating a high fiber diet to prevent constipation and hemorrhoids
- Avoiding use of supplements like iron and activated charcoal
- Getting colonoscopies starting at age 45 to remove polyps before cancer develops
- Seeing a doctor for stomach pain or bleeding, rather than self-treating
However, some causes like food reactions or bleeding disorders aren’t preventable. The key is to see a doctor if black poop occurs repeatedly or with other red flag symptoms.
Can you treat black poop at home?
If black poop is caused by a food or supplement, it will usually resolve on its own once that item is eliminated from your diet. Getting more fiber, fluids, and exercise may also help. But home treatment isn’t recommended if black stool persists or you have any concerning symptoms. See your doctor to determine the cause and appropriate care.
When to call emergency services
Go to the ER or call 911 if you have black stool along with:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fainting or dizziness
- Rectal bleeding that soaks through your clothing or doesn’t stop with pressure
These can indicate a life-threatening emergency like a perforated bowel or major bleeding requiring urgent surgery. Don’t try to drive yourself – call for emergency transport.
Conclusion
Black poop is seldom a cause for panic on its own. In many cases, it resolves once a food coloring source is removed from your diet. But black stool that persists or occurs with other red flag symptoms can indicate a serious medical problem requiring prompt medical care. Call your doctor if black poop is accompanied by symptoms like abdominal pain, weight loss, fever or anemia. Prompt evaluation and treatment can identify the cause and improve outcomes for potentially serious conditions like cancer.