What Do Black Faeces Mean?

In medical terminology 'black faeces' is also called Melena. Black faeces, is a condition in which a person passes black stools. The faeces of such a person are black or tarry. This condition is generally associated with haemorrhage. The iron in the haemoglobin pigment of blood gets oxidised when it passes through the ileum and the colon of the intestinal tract. This gives black colour to the faeces.

This is commonly caused due to peptic (acidic area of gastrointestinal tract) ulcers or any other condition that causes bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract or ascending colon of the intestine. Thus, bleeding can either be in the upper part of the intestinal tract or its can be in the lower part. The bleeding in the lower part is slow enough to cause to cause the oxidation of iron. Black faeces condition is a medical emergency and may be difficult to control.

I have cramping first. And right away I have to rush to the toilet and have a dark watery movement, then I feel good. What could be my problem?

Both my husband and myself have been experiencing gastrointestinal distress since returning from Mexico,  We now both,  while feeling some what better, we still ar not  not 100% and our stools are black and has us concerned.