Doctor warns of five concerning toilet symptoms that could be signs of serious health issues

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): An emergency doctor has highlighted five concerning symptoms that may appear while using the toilet and should be checked immediately, as they could indicate a serious health condition. Dr. Suraj Kukadia, known for his expertise in emergency medicine, explained that unusual symptoms during bowel movements may be signs of something more sinister and shouldn’t be ignored.

Dr. Kukadia responded to a follower's concern about pain and blood when using the toilet, emphasizing that such issues are concerning. He noted, “Poop should never be spiky, painful, or hard, and there should never be any blood.” If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

In addition to seeking medical attention, Dr. Kukadia offered practical advice for improving digestive health. He recommended increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, and consuming more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. He also suggested using psyllium husk, a fiber supplement, to soften stools and reduce the risk of tearing, pain, and bleeding. Another important piece of advice was not to delay bowel movements. Dr. Kukadia also recommended using a stool to elevate the feet while sitting on the toilet to allow for smoother bowel movements.

The symptoms that should raise concern include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits (such as constipation or diarrhea), and consistent tummy pain. These could be early signs of bowel cancer, a serious and potentially fatal condition. The NHS lists several symptoms of bowel cancer, which include:

- Changes in stool consistency (softer poo, diarrhea, constipation)

- An increase or decrease in bowel movement frequency

- Blood in the stool, which may appear red or black

- Bleeding from the bottom

- A sensation of needing to poop, even after just using the toilet

- Persistent tummy pain or discomfort

- A lump in the tummy

- Bloating

- Unexplained weight loss

- Extreme fatigue or tiredness

Bowel cancer can also lead to anemia, which may cause shortness of breath, headaches, and fatigue. Health experts recommend visiting a doctor if any of these symptoms persist for more than three weeks.

Caution

In a small town, Ravi had always brushed off his digestive discomforts, thinking they were due to stress or diet. But one day, after experiencing pain and blood during a bowel movement, he recalled the advice he'd heard and decided to seek medical attention. It turned out he had early-stage bowel cancer, which was caught in time and successfully treated. Ravi’s decision to get checked saved his life. His experience serves as a reminder that paying attention to our bodies and seeking help when necessary can make all the difference in detecting serious health conditions early.