Why do I have black stools after taking iron tablets?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia for three months. On my latest check-up, I have seen that my iron level has reduced (5.74 g/dL to 5.72 g/dL) while my serum iron level has increased (36 mcg/dL to 39 mcg/dL).

My RBC level is normal. But my hemoglobin level got higher (11.3 g/dL) as my UBIC is still high. I made a urine test too, as I had white things in my urine for almost three months.

My results say the leucocyte clusters are typical, and 15 to 20 % epithelial cells are seen. My doctor advised me to take Ciprofloxacin antibiotics. Since yesterday, when I started using Iron tablets, my stool has been two colors: some are black (because of the iron), and a few are light brown.

When the stools are dropping, I have a feeling that something is hurting me. It quickly passes away, and after it has gone, my anus starts to burn. Is this a sign of bacterial infection? There was no blood in my stool.

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The black stool is due to iron intake. You can have a burning sensation while passing stool because of proctitis, like inflammation, or piles. For that, a local rectal and proctoscopy examination is needed.

Anal water sitz baths are beneficial, and if piles are present, Cremaffin syrup (Sodium Picosulfate with liquid Paraffin) can be taken. Your white urine is due to the presence of pus cells, and it can be suggestive of a urinary tract infection.

I hope that this answers your query.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.