What does stinky black tar stool mean with foul breath matching smell?

Black, tarry stools, also known as melena, can indicate the presence of upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. This type of bleeding usually occurs in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The black color of the stool is due to the presence of digested blood, which gives it a tar-like appearance.

Foul-smelling breath, also known as halitosis, can also be a sign of upper GI bleeding. This is because the blood from the GI tract can travel up into the esophagus and cause a bad smell in the mouth.

Both black, tarry stools and foul-smelling breath can be signs of a serious medical condition, so it's important to see a doctor right away if you're experiencing these symptoms.

Some possible causes of upper GI bleeding include:

* Peptic ulcers: These are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or duodenum.

* Esophagitis: This is inflammation of the esophagus, which can be caused by a variety of factors, such as acid reflux, infection, or medications.

* Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach, which can be caused by a variety of factors, such as infection, medications, or alcohol use.

* Cancer of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum: These types of cancer can cause bleeding from the GI tract.

If you're experiencing black, tarry stools and foul-smelling breath, it's important to see a doctor right away. The doctor will likely perform a physical exam, order blood tests, and possibly perform an endoscopy (a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the GI tract to look for any abnormalities).

Treatment for upper GI bleeding depends on the cause of the bleeding. In some cases, medication can be used to stop the bleeding. In other cases, surgery may be necessary.