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Melena is a form of blood in stool which refers to the dark black, tarry feces that are commonly associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. [1] The black color and characteristic strong odor are caused by hemoglobin in the blood being altered by digestive enzymes and intestinal bacteria. [2]
A number of foods and medications can turn the stool either red or black in the absence of bleeding. [2] Bismuth found in many antacids may turn stools black as may activated charcoal. [2] Blood from the vagina or urinary tract may also be confused with blood in the stool. [2]
A persistent (chronic) history of diarrhea, with watery or mushy, unformed stools, (types 6 and 7 on the Bristol stool scale), sometimes with steatorrhea, increased frequency and urgency of defecation are common manifestations, often with fecal incontinence and other gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal swelling, bloating and abdominal pain.
Diarrhea is defined by the World Health Organization as having three or more loose or liquid stools per day, or as having more stools than is normal for that person. [ 2 ] Acute diarrhea is defined as an abnormally frequent discharge of semisolid or fluid fecal matter from the bowel, lasting less than 14 days, by World Gastroenterology ...
This is an accepted version of this page This is the latest accepted revision, reviewed on 10 January 2025. Medical system for classifying human faeces Medical diagnostic method Bristol stool scale Bristol stool chart Synonyms Bristol stool chart (BSC); Bristol Stool Scale (BSS); Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS or BSF scale); Purpose classify type of feces (diagnostic triad for irritable bowel ...
Infected individuals who experience symptoms (about 10% have no symptoms) may have diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. [1] Less common symptoms include vomiting and blood in the stool. [1] Symptoms usually begin one to three weeks after exposure and, without treatment, may last two to six weeks or longer. [4]
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If diarrhea becomes severe (typically defined as three or more loose stools in an eight-hour period), especially if associated with nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, or blood in stools, medical treatment should be sought. Such patients may benefit from antimicrobial therapy. [12]