What is Melena?
Melena refers to black, tarry stools caused by the presence of digested blood in the gastrointestinal tract. It's often a sign of bleeding in the upper digestive tract, such as the stomach or esophagus. Melena can indicate serious conditions like:
- Ulcers
- Gastritis
- Bleeding disorders
Early detection and treatment are crucial. Learn more about melena symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat symptoms are associated with melena?
- Black, tarry stools
- Foul-smelling stools
- Blood in stool
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Fatigue or weakness due to potential blood loss
- Nausea or vomiting (less common)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness (less common)
What causes melena?
Although hematochezia and melena cause bloody stools, they each have different possible causes.
Hematochezia
Hematochezia starts lower in your digestive tract, usually in your colon. Several factors can cause bleeding in the lower digestive tract, including:
- Internal hemorrhoids
- Diverticular disease, such as diverticulitis
- Anal fissures
- Colon Cancer
- Ischemic colitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Neoplastic polyps
- Benign tumors
Melena
Melena is caused by bleeding higher up in your digestive tract. This may be due to:
- Peptic ulcers
- Gastric or esophageal varices
- Gastritis
- Stomach cancer
- Mallory-Weiss syndrome
How do you Diagnose Melena?
- Medical history: Including symptoms, past medical conditions, and medications.
- Physical examination: Checking for signs of bleeding and abdominal tenderness.
- Stool tests: Analyzing a sample of stool for the presence of blood.
- Endoscopy: Upper endoscopy or colonoscopy allows direct visualization of the gastrointestinal tract to identify the source of bleeding.
- Imaging tests: In some cases, imaging tests like abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or angiography may be necessary to locate the bleeding site.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests, such as complete blood count (CBC) and coagulation studies, help assess the extent of blood loss and evaluate clotting function.
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Book an AppointmentHow do you treat Melena?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of melena. Options may include:
- Medications to reduce stomach acid
- Endoscopic procedures to stop bleeding
- Surgery in severe cases
When to visit a Doctor?
Severe rectal bleeding can constitute a medical emergency. Visit the emergency department if you experience one of the following symptoms:
- Cold, clammy skin
- Confusion
- Continuous rectal bleeding
- Fainting
- Painful abdominal cramping
- Rapid breathing
- Severe anal pain
- Severe nausea
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does passing black stools mean something serious?
Yes, passing black stools (melaena) can indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract. It's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
How is melaena different from regular bowel movements?
Melaena appears as black, tarry stools due to the presence of digested blood, while regular bowel movements are typically brown.
Can melaena occur without any pain?
Yes, melaena can occur without accompanying pain. It's essential to monitor any changes in bowel habits and consult a healthcare professional.
What should I do if I notice Melaena?
If you notice black stools, don't ignore them. Contact a doctor immediately for evaluation and appropriate management.
Is melaena always a sign of a serious condition?
While melaena can indicate underlying health issues like gastrointestinal bleeding, it's not always indicative of a serious condition. However, prompt medical assessment is necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment.
