Yellowish-Black Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Yellowish-Black Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： Let's wait for the results of the occult blood test before making any conclusions! Theoretically, if there is gastrointestinal bleeding, the blood may appear red, possibly dark red, brick red, or bright red. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai A

Stool that is yellow with black streaks?

I previously experienced frequent abdominal pain, and recently I couldn't tolerate it any longer, so I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
After the procedure, it was discovered that I had gastric bleeding and Helicobacter pylori, but no polyps.
When I mentioned the area where I felt pain, the doctor indicated that it was in the intestines.
I asked if I could proceed with a colonoscopy, but he advised me to treat the stomach first.
I took gastric medication for two weeks, but during that time, I experienced severe abdominal pain about once a week.
The doctor suggested it might be due to something I ate.
I suspect it could be related to sweet potatoes, as my diet hasn't been particularly bland.
Last Friday, I had intense pain and went to the clinic for an injection and IV fluids, after which my gastrointestinal discomfort subsided.
However, the day before yesterday, I noticed my stool was yellow with a black tint, which made me anxious, and I asked my mom if it was blood in my stool.
I researched some information online, and they suggested it might be related to food, but I don't recall eating anything that would cause black stools.
Recently, I did have duck blood last Thursday, and we shared one serving.
The day I had the pain was also this past Wednesday.
Today, I had a very well-formed stool that was similarly yellow with black.
My mom mentioned she has experienced something similar, and there were some black specks on the toilet paper that resembled vegetable matter.
This morning, I took a stool sample for occult blood testing, but neither my mom nor I remember eating anything that would cause black stools.
What could this situation be? Should I get a colonoscopy, or is this a normal condition? (My mom has been encouraging me to eat more vegetables lately.) Is it related to the vegetables? Thank you for your help, doctor.

Li Zimin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/06

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Let's wait for the results of the occult blood test before making any conclusions! Theoretically, if there is gastrointestinal bleeding, the blood may appear red, possibly dark red, brick red, or bright red.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun

Reply Date: 2022/05/06

More Info

Yellowish-black stool can be a concerning symptom, especially when accompanied by abdominal pain, as you have described. It is important to understand the potential causes of this condition and when to seek medical help.

Firstly, the color and consistency of stool can be influenced by various factors, including diet, medications, and underlying health conditions. In your case, the recent history of abdominal pain, gastric bleeding, and the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection are significant. H. pylori is a common bacterium that can cause stomach ulcers and gastritis, leading to gastrointestinal bleeding. The bleeding can result in dark or black stools, often referred to as "melena," which indicates that the blood has been digested as it passes through the gastrointestinal tract.

The yellowish hue in your stool could be due to several reasons. If you have been consuming foods high in certain pigments, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, this could lead to a yellowish tint. However, the presence of black in your stool raises concerns about possible bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. It is also worth noting that certain medications, particularly iron supplements or bismuth compounds (found in some antacids), can cause dark stools.

Given your symptoms, it is essential to consider the following:
1. Dietary Factors: While you mentioned not recalling eating anything that would cause black stools, it is crucial to review your diet closely. Foods like black licorice, blueberries, or even certain dark leafy greens can sometimes alter stool color. However, if you have been eating a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, this is less likely to be the sole cause.

2. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: The combination of your previous gastric bleeding and the current stool color is concerning. If the bleeding is from the upper GI tract, it can lead to black, tarry stools. If it originates from the lower GI tract, it may present as red or maroon stools, but it can also appear dark depending on the speed of transit through the intestines.

3. Potential Infections or Conditions: Besides H. pylori, other infections or conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulitis, or even colorectal cancer, could lead to changes in stool color and consistency.
4. When to Seek Help: It is crucial to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Significant changes in bowel habits
- Blood in the stool (red or black)
- Symptoms of anemia (fatigue, weakness, pale skin)
- Unexplained weight loss
In your case, since you have already undergone an upper endoscopy and are experiencing ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a colonoscopy to evaluate the lower gastrointestinal tract, especially given your family history of similar symptoms.
In conclusion, while dietary factors can influence stool color, the combination of your symptoms suggests that further investigation is warranted. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

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