Melena

Definitions

Description

Dark, tarry stool with or without visible blood.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a healthcare professional right away if there is:

  • Fainting.
  • Pale skin.
  • Sweating.
  • Fast heartbeat.
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Shortness of breath.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a healthcare professional for any melena, with or without other symptoms, even if gets better on its own.