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Have suddenly noticed black stools. Have been taking one aspirin daily as suggested by DR several years ago with no effects noted. But recently all stools are very dark (black). Had colon cancer surgery in 1985 but colonscopy exams up to a few years ago noted only some polyps and diverticulous. Some occasional swallowing problems with lump that feels like an air bubble stuck in throat. Am 94 years old. Any suggestions?
Optional Information: Male, Age: 94, CaliforniaAlready Tried: nothing
Eugene,This usually means that there is blood coming from the upper part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This includes the esophagus, stomach, or first part of the small intestine. Stomach ulcers caused by ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin are common causes of upper GI bleeding. Consuming black licorice, lead, iron pills, bismuth medicines like Pepto-Bismol, or blueberries can also cause black stools. Black stools can also be caused by gastritis, esophageal varices, Mallory-Weiss tear (a tear in the esophagus from violent vomiting), trauma or foreign body, bowel ischemia (a lack of proper blood flow to the intestines), and vascular malformation. If it is not from something you ingested, you will need to see a doctor to determine where the bleeding is coming from. As far as your swallowing problems, this is most likely unrelated and can be due to many different conditions so this will also need to be evaluated by a doctor.
Nurse (RN)
PHD RN 40+ years in nursing all depts & units 20+ years as a midwife, certified lactation consultant
Answer only regurgitated info I had already found on the internet. Expected some help beyond that and don't particularly want to pay for info already readily available, but will do so if you feel I should. Nurse seems to be well qualified and maybe nothing more can be provided without lab tests. As you advise, it's up to me to consult a doctor for appropriate advice.
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