Twelve yr. old son dark green diarrhea?

[deewaite]

12 yr. old son threw-up last night a couple of times and once with a surprise diarrhea. We had to fly out this morning. I gave him Pepto-Bismol chewables. Which seem to work. He only got sick on the plane once. A few hours ago he had a large very loose blackish green stool. He does not have a fever.  He went from being pale to flush in the cheeks. When should I be worried? Thank you.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Green stools do not signify a specific disease.  Viral gastroenteritis or irritable bowel disease can lead to more rapid transit of food, leading to a discoloration of stool.  

Bloody, black or pale stools are more cause for worry.  If the stools are black (as mentioned), an upper GI bleed can be of concern.  I would discuss this with his pediatrician or if you are out of town, consider an evaluation by an emergency room.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
http://www.straightfromthedoc.com

[LukeL]

Green feces is oftenc caused by food dyes many of which are used in grape goods like kool-aid and popsicles. Even a small amount of this can cause green colored stool. If you look in the nutrition forum their is a thread about a topic somewhat similar to this.

[revamp]

The black color is most probably from the pepto-bismol.  It makes stool black (read the label)

I'm pretty surprised the Dr didn't mention this and instead went right for the "internal bleeding".  Don't worry, I'm sure things will even out before too long.

[mmfd]

Green stools can also occur after eating a lot of licorice!  It can last several days too.