HomeAnswersHematologyiron defeciency anemiaWhy am I having black stools after taking iron tablets?

Why do I have black stools after taking iron tablets?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At August 14, 2018
Reviewed AtJanuary 31, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia before 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 got higher (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 there are 15 to 20 % epithelial cells seen. My doctor advised me to take Ciprofloxacin antibiotics. From yesterday, as I started using Iron tablets, I saw my stool in two colored like some of them are black (because of the iron), and few ones are light brown. When the stools are dropping, I have a feeling of 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.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The black stool is because of iron intake. You can have a burning sensation while passing stool because of proctitis like inflammation or due to piles. For that local rectal and proctoscopy examination is needed. Anal water sitz bath is beneficial, and if piles is present, then Cremaffin syrup (Sodium Picosulfate with liquid Paraffin) can be taken. Your white color urine is due to the presence of pus cells and it can be suggestive of urinary tract infection.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Goswami Parth Rajendragiri
Dr. Goswami Parth Rajendragiri

Pathology

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