10 Gastric Cancer Symptoms
Symptom #6: Melena
Melena describes feces that are tarry and dark black. It usually occurs due to upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The feces are black in color with a characteristic odor due to the hemoglobin that has been altered by intestinal bacteria and digestive enzymes. Melena should be distinguished from other grayish-black stools that may be seen when there is consumption of medicine such as iron supplements, bismuth salicylate, black licorice, beetroot, or blueberries.
Some causes of melena include peptic ulcer disease, side effects of anticoagulant medication (like warfarin), hemorrhagic hematologic diseases, and malignant tumors that affect the stomach, esophagus, or small intestine. Patients who suspect themselves having melena should seek prompt medical attention
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