[24M] Experiencing blood in stool without stomach pain

Patient Description

A 24-year-old male reports significant blood in stool, first noticed 3 days ago, with the blood appearing dark and tarry, coating the stool. This is the first occurrence of such a symptom for the patient. Alongside this, the patient has experienced vomiting once, fatigue, lightheadedness, and constipation with a sensation of gas in the stomach. There has been no stomach pain, weight loss, severe abdominal pain, or any other significant symptoms reported. The patient has no past medical history of chronic illnesses or conditions and is not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, there are several possible conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  • Gastrointestinal Bleeding: The presence of dark, tarry stools (also known as melena) is often a sign of bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. This could be due to a variety of conditions, including ulcers, gastritis, or esophageal varices.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid and possibly procedures to stop the bleeding.
  • Iron Supplement Overdose: If you've been taking iron supplements, they can cause dark stools. However, you mentioned that you're not taking any medications, so this is less likely.

  • Certain Foods: Some foods can cause dark stools, such as black licorice, blueberries, or taking Pepto-Bismol. However, these would not typically cause the other symptoms you're experiencing.

What you can do

Given the potential seriousness of your symptoms, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. You should go to the emergency department as soon as possible.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Feeling faint or passing out
  • Rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What causes dark, tarry stools?

Dark, tarry stools, also known as melena, are typically caused by bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. This can result from conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, or esophageal varices. The dark color is due to the blood being digested as it passes through the intestines.


What are the potential risks of gastrointestinal bleeding?

Gastrointestinal bleeding can lead to significant blood loss, which may cause symptoms like fatigue, lightheadedness, and anemia. If left untreated, it can result in severe complications, including shock or even death.


How can gastrointestinal bleeding be treated?

Treatment for gastrointestinal bleeding often involves medications to reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors, and procedures to stop the bleeding, like endoscopy. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for gastrointestinal symptoms?

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, feeling faint or passing out, or if you have a rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition that requires urgent care.


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