Black poop can mean different things depending on its cause. It is often a sign of bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, or the first part of the small intestine. This condition is medically called melena. The blood turns black and tarry as it is digested while traveling through the GI tract, resulting in black, sticky, foul- smelling stool
. Common causes of black poop due to bleeding include:
- Bleeding ulcers (peptic ulcers)
- Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
- Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
- Tears in the esophagus from intense vomiting (Mallory-Weiss tear)
- Swollen veins (varices) in the esophagus or stomach that rupture
- Cancer in the esophagus, stomach, or pancreas
- Other serious conditions like angiodysplasia or viral hemorrhagic fevers
However, black poop can also be caused by less serious factors such as:
- Certain medications like bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) and iron supplements
- Eating dark-colored foods like black licorice, blueberries, blackberries, blood sausage, or foods high in iron
- Activated charcoal supplements
If black stool is caused by food or medication, it usually resolves once the food or medicine is out of your system and does not have a foul smell or sticky texture. But if the black poop is persistent, tarry, foul-smelling, or accompanied by symptoms like stomach pain, vomiting, or fatigue, it may indicate internal bleeding and requires prompt medical evaluation
. In summary, black poop can mean:
- Internal bleeding in the upper GI tract (serious condition needing medical attention)
- Harmless causes like certain foods, supplements, or medications
If you notice black stool lasting more than a day or two, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, you should see a doctor to rule out serious causes
