Abdominal Pain, Age 12 And Older: Check Your Symptoms


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When to See a Doctor

You have answered Yes to:

Are your stools black or bloody?


See significance of blood in your stool if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Note:
  • Call 911 or other emergency services if you have blood in your stool and any signs of shock, such as:
    • Passing out (losing consciousness).
    • Feeling very dizzy or lightheaded, like you may pass out.
    • Feeling very weak or having trouble standing up.
    • Being less alert. You may suddenly be unable to respond to questions, or you may be confused, restless, or fearful.
  • Certain foods and medicines can change how the stool looks. Taking medicines that contain bismuth, such as Pepto-Bismol, or iron tablets can make the stool black, and eating lots of beets may turn the stool red. Some food colorings also can change the color of your stool. Eating foods that contain black or dark blue food coloring can turn your stool black.
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Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had 1 or more normal-size to large stools that are mostly black or bloody?

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Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Have you had 1 or more normal-size to large stools that are partly black or bloody?

Yes

Have you had 1 or more small stools that are mostly black or bloody?

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You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had streaks of blood in your stools?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.



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Last updated: February 15, 2007
Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

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