Melena Stool Definition, Causes and More

Author
By carolynne
Reviewed
Reviewed: dr. stavarache
Article Sources Article Sources
  • 1. 'Melaena - Causes - Diagnoses - Management.' TeachMeSurgery, 3 Apr. 2020, teachmesurgery.com/general/presentations/melena/.
  • 2. Tresca, Amber J. 'What Are the Causes of Black Stool?' Verywell Health, www.verywellhealth.com/causes-of-black-stool-1941711.
  • 3. 'Melena - What You Need to Know.' Drugs.com, www.drugs.com/cg/melena.html.
  • 4. 'Cirrhosis.' Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 6 Feb. 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cirrhosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351487.
  • 5. Wilson, I. Dodd. 'Hematemesis, Melena, and Hematochezia.' Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd Edition., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Jan. 1990, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK411/.
Medical Expert Medical Expert

When there's a change in bowel habits and a noticeable difference in stools, it can be a cause for concern. Black stools can often be traced back to a simple cause such as recent meals or nutritional supplements, but sometimes the reason can be related to gastrointestinal bleeding.

Stools that are tarry, sticky and appear to contain congealed blood are referred to as melena. There's normally an internal cause for a melena, which would need to be diagnosed by a healthcare professional. These stools are frequently accompanied by weakness, vomiting and pain. A variety of treatments are available.

Melena Stool

Home | Privacy Policy | Editorial | Unsubscribe | About Us

This site offers information designed for entertainment & educational purposes only. With any health related topic discussed on this site you should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, advice, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, treatment, or diagnosis. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.