Question
Hello doctor,
Recently, I have been experiencing black stools that are loose and shapeless (similar to diarrhea). Especially after drinking alcohol, I often feel mild abdominal pain. Could you please tell me what condition black stools and abdominal pain after drinking alcohol might indicate? How can I prevent it? Thank you, doctor.
Anonymous Client
Answer
Answered by Specialist Doctor Level I Dong Xuan Ha - Department of General Medicine, Vinmec Ha Long International Hospital.
Hello,
In response to your question, "What condition might black stools and abdominal pain after drinking alcohol indicate?" I provide the following explanation:
Black stools can result from consuming foods like blood pudding or iron supplements. However, it may also indicate a serious gastrointestinal condition. This could be a sign of bleeding in your gastrointestinal tract. These stools are typically loose, black, and may look like coffee grounds with a foul smell.
Gastrointestinal bleeding can result from several causes, including ruptured esophageal varices, gastric or esophageal erosion due to cirrhosis, esophageal tears from vomiting, erosive ulcers affecting blood vessels, tumors, large polyps, severe enteritis, intestinal tuberculosis, etc.
The severity of the bleeding can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, can be life-threatening due to acute blood loss.
In your case, black, loose stools accompanied by abdominal pain after consuming alcohol strongly suggest gastrointestinal bleeding. This requires immediate medical care and cannot be treated with home remedies or diet changes alone. You should visit a hospital promptly to determine whether gastrointestinal bleeding is occurring, assess its severity, and identify the underlying cause for appropriate treatment.
If you have further concerns about black stools, you may visit a hospital within the Vinmec Health System for evaluation and consultation. Thank you for trusting and sending your question to Vinmec. Wishing you good health.
Sincerely,
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