Scary Stool Changes: When to See a Doctor for Digestive Issues

Oh my gosh~ what a scary stool!

Something terrifying happened with my bowel movement tonight.
I passed about three stools.
The first two were red, and the last one was black.
Oh my gosh, how could this happen? Could it be related to food? Last night, I had a plate of red fermented pork, and this morning, I had a bowl of pig's blood soup.
Should I see a doctor?

Xiao An, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/08/14

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, certain foods can cause stool to appear red or black; for example, pig's blood can make stool turn black.
If there is no abdominal pain or dizziness, it is advisable to monitor the situation.
If the stool remains black or red, you can collect a sample in a plastic bag and bring it to the outpatient clinic for testing.
Sincerely, Dr.
Yuan Hong-Dao, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2005/08/14

More Info

When it comes to changes in bowel movements, especially those that involve unusual colors or consistencies, it is essential to approach the situation with caution. The symptoms you describe—having red and black stools—can be alarming and may indicate underlying health issues that require medical attention.

Firstly, the color of your stool can provide valuable insights into your digestive health. Red stools can be indicative of bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as from hemorrhoids or diverticulitis, or they could be a result of consuming certain foods, such as beets or red food coloring. In your case, since you mentioned eating red fermented pork (紅糟肉) and pig's blood soup (豬血湯), it is possible that the red color could be attributed to these foods. However, it is crucial to note that if the red color persists beyond the consumption of these foods, it could signify a more serious condition that warrants further investigation.

On the other hand, black stools can indicate bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as from ulcers or gastritis, as the blood turns black as it is digested. Black stools can also result from certain medications, particularly iron supplements or bismuth subsalicylate (found in medications like Pepto-Bismol), or from consuming foods like black licorice or blueberries. Given that you have experienced both red and black stools in a short period, this combination is particularly concerning.

In general, if you notice any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly:
1. Persistent Changes: If the changes in stool color persist for more than a couple of days, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, or changes in appetite, these could indicate a more serious condition.

3. Signs of Blood: If you notice blood in your stool or if your stool appears tarry or black without a clear dietary cause, you should see a doctor immediately.

4. Dehydration: If you experience diarrhea along with these changes and signs of dehydration (such as dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination), it is crucial to seek medical help.

In your case, considering the combination of red and black stools, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend diagnostic tests, such as a stool test, blood tests, or imaging studies, to determine the cause of these changes and to rule out any serious conditions.

In conclusion, while dietary factors can influence stool color, the presence of both red and black stools is a concerning sign that should not be ignored. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Seeking medical advice can provide peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Changes in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, doctor: About three days ago, I had an upset stomach, and my stool was loose. By the previous day, my stool had returned to a normal banana shape. However, after breakfast today, I felt a bit uncomfortable in my stomach, and when I had a bowel movement, I noticed that my s...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The warning sign of thinner stools is indicative of rectal cancer causing intestinal obstruction, which is already a late-stage symptom. In younger individuals, this phenomenon is mostly caused by swollen hemorrhoids. If diarrhea improves and normal stool consistency returns, the...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about some gastrointestinal issues. I have had digestive problems since childhood; I easily get diarrhea after eating junk food (like cookies and snacks, or high-fat fried foods). I also experience abdominal pain when the weather gets cooler or ...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is likely a change related to irritable bowel syndrome. A fecal occult blood test can be performed first; if the result is negative and normal, dietary and lifestyle adjustments can be made. If necessary, medication can also be added for control, and follow-up should be conduc...

Understanding Digestive Issues: What Your Bowel Changes Might Mean

Hello doctor, I am currently 17 years old. One night, my family had a barbecue at home, and I ate a lot because it was so delicious. After the meal, I felt uncomfortable in my stomach, as if the food was hard to digest. Since then, my bowel movements have been irregular; sometime...

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Sometimes improper diet can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a hospital for evaluation, examination, and treatment by a physician.

Understanding Changes in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, doctor. I remember that my bowel habits used to be once every 1 to 2 days in the evening. However, about two months ago, one night after dinner, I started experiencing diarrhea, which continued for several days. Almost every time I eat, I have diarrhea. I felt something wa...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Based on your description, the likelihood of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) seems to be higher. It is generally recommended to initially use medication to control symptoms during severe episodes, and then to maintain symptom relief through improvements in dietary habits and lifes...