2-year-old black stool?

Black stool (melena) in a 2-year-old must always be checked by a pediatrician, as it usually means bleeding in the upper digestive system (stomach or food pipe). The most common cause is blood mixed with stomach acid—though iron supplements, blueberries, licorice root, or bananas can turn stool dark (but usually it's greenish-brown, not tar-like and sticky). Here's the key guidance: If your child's stool is tar-black and sticky, or if it comes with paleness, tiredness, or vomiting, go to the emergency room right away. When in doubt, call your pediatrician the same day—don't wait. If your child takes iron supplements, tell the doctor; if the stool stays black or doesn't go back to normal within 1–2 days of stopping the supplement, pediatrician evaluation is needed.