Why Is My Poop Black?
Article Sources
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9. Diagnosing the Cause of Black Stool
To determine the cause of black stool, the health care provider reviews the person's medical history and symptoms before conducting a physical exam of the rectum and anus. They're likely to perform a fecal blood test to find out if blood is present in the stool.8‘Rectal Bleeding: Causes, Colors, Tests & When To Call The Doctor.’ Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/14612-rectal-bleeding.
The person may undergo endoscopy or colonoscopy, procedures that allow examination of the intestinal tract to help determine the cause of the dark stool and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Other tests may include stool cultures and blood studies.15‘Black or Tarry Stools: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia.’ MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003130.htm.
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