Black Stool in a 3-Year-Old: Potential Causes & Concerns

Question
Last month my 3 year old had stomach pain and his stool was black, he has continued to have pain on and off. He has Autism so it makes it difficult for him to communicate, but he points to his belly button and sometimes to his right side.

Answer
Dear Dennise,

My scope of practice does not include pediatrics; however black stool can be a sign of old blood, especially if it is tarry. This usually indicates a bleed high up in the digestive tract. Because of his difficulty in communicating, I would recommend a visit to his pediatrician as soon as possible. If the abdominal pain is associated with vomiting, doubling over in pain or bright red blood in his vomit or stool, a visit to the emergency department is warranted.