Word parts
What it means
The black color comes from blood that has been digested on its way through the gut, so melena usually means bleeding high in the digestive tract: the esophagus, stomach or first part of the small intestine. Iron pills and bismuth (Pepto-Bismol) can also turn stool black, but that stool is not sticky and tarry.
For the nurse
Report melena. Check the heart rate and blood pressure for signs of blood loss, test the stool for blood as ordered and watch the hemoglobin.
At a glance
| Everyday words | black, tarry stool |
|---|---|
| Spanish | melena |
Related terms
hemoglobin
The iron-containing protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and the blood test that measures it.
hemorrhage
A large loss of blood from a blood vessel, inside the body or out of it.
gastrointestinal
Having to do with the stomach and intestines, or with the whole digestive tract from the mouth to the anus.
ulcer
An open sore where the skin or the lining of an organ has broken down.