Not going to the bathroom for a long time or noticing changes in your stool could be signs that something is wrong with your health.
Did you know? the frequency and even shape of your stools can indicate some of them health problems? Yes, they could also be signs of more serious problems, such as colorectal cancer, or less urgent illnesses, but which could have more serious consequences if left untreated.
Therefore, it is essential to always observe your stools and what your routine is like regarding going to the bathroom. Below, see tips from digestive system surgeon Dr. Rodrigo Barbosa, from the capital of São Paulo, on what to look out for:
Evacuation frequency
According to the expert, the ideal would be to have a bowel movement every day, however some people can poop every two days without experiencing any discomfort. The important thing is that there are no substantial changes in this model.
“If the period without bowel movements exceeds three days, it can be a warning sign and indicate constipation which, if left untreated, can cause complications such as anal fissures, hemorrhoids and even fecal impaction,” explains the professional.
Signs that your stool is not normal
According to Dr. Rodrigo, healthy stools will have a soft consistency, similar to that of a banana. Furthermore, they must be eliminated effortlessly. You should keep an eye out for the following changes that may cause problems:
- Very hard or ball-shaped stools: Classic sign of constipation, when the intestine retains feces for a long time
- Liquid or pasty stools: It may indicate infections or poor absorption of nutrients
- Very dark or reddish stools: They may indicate the presence of blood that should be investigated immediately
- Whitish or yellowish stools: It may indicate liver or gallbladder problems
In addition to these signs, Dr. Rodrigo says that symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating or general malaise are indications that there may be changes in bowel habits and can also signal more serious conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or even colorectal cancer, so, the importance of paying attention.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
