I've been having abd. pain for about a month on and off, today i have black diarrhea. the pain is right above my belly button. should i be worried?

Exam needed: Both symptoms make evaluation mandatory as abdominal distress lasting that long requires investigation. Black diarrhea can be due to bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, small intestine or right side of the colon. Peptobismol and taking iron supplements may also cause black stools. See a physician as soon as possible so that appropriate tests can be done for diagnosis and treatment.

GI ISSUES: Many possible causes come to mind, but the combination of persistent abdominal pain and the new addition of "black" loose stools certainly warrants prompt evaluation that can be coordinated through your PCP. If the pain gets worse or you begin to notice obvious blood with your bowel movements prior to getting into see your doctor, you should go to the emergency department.