Please help!

[pele2]

I am a 42 year old male and for the last several weeks have been having stomach cramping and pain, intensifying as time goes on. I have a BM each morning. However, the stool has a black, tarry appearance and the diameter of a pencil. I often feel nauseous when swallowing. I also have persistent rectal odor, one that showering three times per day does not remove. I have virtually no appetite and feel very lethargic. Having no health insurance, I feel helpless and do not know where to turn. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[bj31]

It sounds like you are definitely bleeding internally and if you wait too long you take the risk that you may not have to worry about whether or not you have insurance to pay for your treatment.  About 2 years ago I had the somewhat of the same situation and I needed immediate surgery.  You need to go in NOW!!  Pay for the treatment in minimum monthly payments if you have to.  BUT GO!!  I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

[Jaybay]

Black tarry stools usually mean you are bleeding somewhere in your intestines.  Insurance or not, you MUST see a doctor whether you pay out of pocket or go to a charitable hospital for treatment.