Black stools get their color because of the presence of blood in the stool. The blood turns black because the bleeding comes from the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract---which includes the esophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine---and then must travel through the rest of the digestive system, according to MedlinePlus. In addition to the dark color, black stools often have a tar-like appearance because of the exposure to digestive juices and enzymes.
Peptic Ulcer
A peptic ulcer is an open sore that forms in the lining of the esophagus, stomach or upper part of the small intestine. Mayo Clinic reports that the most common cause of peptic ulcers is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. Other causes of peptic ulcers include overuse of pain relievers, smoking and alcohol abuse. Stress was also thought to be a cause of peptic ulcers, but it has been discovered that stress does not cause peptic ulcers; however, it significantly exacerbates symptoms, according to Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of peptic ulcers include burning stomach pain, black stools, vomiting blood, nausea, weight loss and appetite changes. Treatment for peptic ulcers consists of a combination of medications that includes antibiotics, acid blockers, antacids and proton pump inhibitors. If peptic ulcers do not respond to drug treatment, surgery may be needed.
Gastritis
Gastritis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the stomach lining. Gastritis may be acute or chronic, and the most common causes include excessive alcohol intake, bacterial infection, certain medications and smoking, according to MedlinePlus. Symptoms of gastritis include black stools, abdominal pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting blood. Treatment for gastritis depends on the specific cause and focus on correcting the underlying condition. In some cases, medications that reduce the production of stomach acid or neutralize stomach acid may be helpful in relieving symptoms.
Mallory-Weiss Tear
A Mallory-Weiss tear is a rip that occurs in the mucous membrane, where the esophagus meets the stomach. Although it is rare, the tear occurs as a result of vigorous or persistent vomiting or coughing, or the convulsions related to seizures, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Symptoms of a Mallory-Weiss tear include black stools and vomiting blood. A Mallory-Weiss tear usually heals on its own without treatment in approximately 10 days, notes UMMC. If bleeding is severe, blood transfusions may be necessary to replace lost blood.
