Dark Coloed (black) Bowel Movement

[brethebrat]

My 5 yr old son has complained for months now of abdominal pain.  Today his bowel movement was black in color.  Is that blood that has been digested?  What are the doctors missing?

[katey]

Black tarry bowel movements are called "melana" i believe.  Its an indication that there is bleeding somewhere in the upper part of the digestive tract.  You're right when you said that it could be an indication of digested blood.  Some causes of bleeding in the upper digestive tract are ulcers, gastritis, esophageal varices, and tears in the esophagus from violent vomiting.  If your son has had black licorice, lead, pepto bismol, or blue berries, these can all cause the stool to turn black.  If he hasn't, i would definately go back to your sons doctor. I don't mean to alarm you, but have to loose at least 2 teaspoons of blood for your stool to turn black.  I hope your sons feeling better soon!!
katie

[teacher23]

I don't think you have given this to your 5 year old son, but PEPTO BISMOL will turn your stools a black tarry color as well.

the first time i used pepto bismol i had black stools, i freaked out and went to the emergency room. No blood, nothing.  My doctor said it was the PB.  I looked up a sight on Pepto Bismol and sure enough, it said it can cause tarry stools.  

Just a thought