What are the causes of black colored stool after taking ayurvedic medicines?

Question

Hello doctor,

I started taking Ayurvedic medicines yesterday, and I have noticed that my stool has turned dark or black. I am suffering from severe belching and headache. I am taking Somu syrup and Shankh Vati. Last month I had the same problem, for which I took allopathic medicines.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The problem of black-colored stools is called melena. If you had it for the first time after having these ayurvedic medicines, then you need to stop these medications and consult your doctor. The medications that you are taking are used for treating gastric diseases and are well tolerated by the patient. But if you are facing trouble after taking these medicines, then stop these and note the color of your stool. Because black-colored stool may be indicative of an upper gastric bleed, peptic ulcer, esophageal varices bleed, etc. You did not mention your past problem and medication. If it is related to the gastrointestinal system, then you should visit a gastroenterologist. As far as your problem of belching and headache is concerned, once you make sure that the black-colored stool is not a major issue, then you can take the medicines for it. You can have an occult blood test done to know about blood in stool, but only after consulting your doctor.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.