Understanding the Significance of Bowel Movement Colors

7. Tarry Black

Although most black bowel movements are benign, you should be concerned if you noticed black, tar like bowel movements. This indicates that your upper digestive tract may be bleeding. You can tell this because the blood has had time to harden and turn black as it travels through your system. Common causes of this type of bowel movement include cancer, ulcers, and tumors. You may also have bleeding in your esophagus or stomach, from causes such as peptic ulcers, esophageal varices, or a Mallory-Weiss tear — a type of tear that can result from repeated vomiting. There is no way to know exactly what the issue is without talking to your physician, so it is important to see a doctor right away to diagnose the cause.