Maroon stools for 3 days and new unset dizziness his skin is rather pale? With more information included?

Question

Hi Freinds and thank you for taking your time

My patient is an 81 year-old male.His BP is 130/78_ P(palse) 84.On standing his BP 100/63_P, 124.
states pain on his kness(arthritis), Hypertention, intermittent constipationand strain when has bowel movement, occasional heartburn when eating., and mild emphysema and bronchitis
He use Medications;
Hydrochlorothiazide 25mg dailr for hypertention
Ventolin inhaler as needed for bronchitis
Ranitidine 75mg over the counter
Extra strenght Tylenol about 5 days out of the week for arthritis.
What is Mr. Jones"s Diagnosis is?

More information

****he is independent with ADLs, just help with yard care and grocery shopping in which he is limited by arthritic pain, well-developed, well-nourished man, looks younger than his stated age, did smoke for 40 years and stoped it 10 years ago.

Thank you again

Answer 1

His blood pressure medicine is probably causing the dizziness. His pressure is fine, but I bet he gets dizzy when he has been sitting and then stands up,or has been laying down resting and then arose. This is a very common side effect of blood thinners which is what the Hydrochlorothiazide is for. Just help him rise slower,or once he is standing,just stand still until the dizziness eases. I also think I would contact his doc and inquire about eliminating the blood pressure meds, it is very controlled on meds,does it just climb like crazy without them? His stools being dark may be caused by foods,beets are real good at making you think you have blood in your stool,maybe check his diet and see if any foods could be the culprit. Otherwise, I would think his bowels are probably slow, and the stools are old fecal matter. You said he does suffer with constipation. Good luck, it's great that you are there for him.

Answer 2

Maroon stool would indicate rectal bleeding, and after 3 days, he may have lost enough blood to explain the new-onset dizziness, and pale skin. Also he's probably very weak. His doctor should be notified to see how he might be helped.