7. Dark, Tarry Stools: A Worrisome Indicator
Our stool can reveal a lot about our health. Dark, tarry stools, medically known as melena, can be particularly alarming. It’s not about a one-off occurrence but a consistent change in stool appearance that is of concern.
One of the complications of chronic gastritis is the potential for stomach bleeding. This internal bleeding, when mixed with digestive enzymes, results in a dark, tarry appearance of the stool. It’s an indicator of potential bleeding within the gastrointestinal tract.
Stool color can vary based on diet and medications. However, if there’s a consistent appearance of dark, tarry stools without a dietary or medicinal reason, it’s crucial to consider it a red flag. Especially when accompanied by other symptoms on this list, it could be indicative of chronic gastritis with complications.
Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. Identifying the source of the bleeding can prevent complications and ensure that the underlying cause, be it chronic gastritis or something else, is addressed. (7)
