Don't rush after defecation, look back, if there are 3 changes, be alert to disease or cancer Uncle Wang has always been a health role model in the community, and he is still in good spirits and regular life in his seventies. However, lately, he has been feeling a little uncomfortable in his stomach and his bowel movements have become abnormal. He didn't care, he just felt that he was inevitably a little uncomfortable when he got older. It wasn't until one day that the color of his poop became unusually black that it caught his attention. After the doctor's examination, Uncle Wang was diagnosed with stomach cancer, but fortunately, it was detected in time and his condition was stable after treatment. This is not only the story of Uncle Wang, but also the reality that each of us may face. Don't rush after a bowel movement, and a glance back may reveal potential health problems. According to research, more than 50% of middle-aged and elderly people ignore changes in bowel movements and miss the early signs of disease. This simple habit can be an important step in preventing serious diseases. Today, we're going to talk about three key changes after a bowel movement to help you take better control of your health.
Recognize the importance of bowel movements
Observe the health significance of bowel movements: Bowel movement is a basic physiological function of the body, it is not only to remove waste, but also an important indicator of the internal condition of the body. Observing changes in bowel movements can help us detect potential health problems in time, intervene early, and effectively prevent the occurrence of serious diseases. The normal color of the stool is generally yellow-brown, with a moderate texture and no special odor. Unusual changes in color, shape, or smell may indicate something wrong with your body. By understanding these changes, we can act earlier to protect our health.
Three major changes to watch out for after a bowel movement
1. Color Change: What does the color of the poop tell you? Normal poop is yellowish-brown in color, with occasional slight changes that may be related to diet. However, the following color changes should be taken seriously: Black stools: Black stools may be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in the upper gastrointestinal tract. If black stools occur for a long time, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately. Red stools: Red stools usually indicate lower gastrointestinal bleeding, such as hemorrhoids or intestinal polyps. It can also be the result of eating red foods, such as beets, but recurrent red stools should be professionally examined. White or gray stools: This could be a problem with the hepatobiliary system, such as a blocked bile duct. Bile can't get into the intestines, causing the poop to become lighter-colored.
2. Shape and texture variations: The health secrets revealed by the shape of the poop
Normal poop is shaped like a banana and has a moderate texture, not dry or runny. If the shape and texture of the poop changes, it may indicate the following problems: Thin strips: Thin stools can be caused by a tumor in the intestine or another blockage. The intestines are squeezed, causing the poop to become thinner. This condition should be checked as soon as possible. Granule stools: Granule stools can be a sign of constipation, with weakened bowel movements, stools staying in the intestines for too long, and too much water being absorbed. Adjusting your diet and drinking plenty of water can alleviate this condition. Loose or watery stools: Persistent loose or watery stools may be a sign of intestinal infection or inflammation. If it is accompanied by abdominal pain and fever, you should seek medical attention promptly.
3. Odor change: a health signal in the smell of poop
Normal poop has a mild odor and is not pungent. If there is a noticeable change in smell, it can be a sign of a health problem: Foul-smelling stools: Unusually foul-smelling poop can be a sign of infection, indigestion, or food intolerance. Especially if it is accompanied by diarrhea, it should be taken seriously. Sour stools: Sour stools may be associated with lactose intolerance or bacterial overgrowth. Dietary modifications to reduce dairy intake may make some difference. Observing changes in bowel movements is a simple but important way to maintain good health. By noticing changes in color, shape, and smell, we can detect potential health problems early and take timely action. Checking and documenting bowel movements regularly, and seeking doctor's advice if necessary, is key to staying healthy. This section is intended to help readers understand the importance of observing changes in bowel movements, and to provide specific ways to identify and respond to them. I hope it helps you in your health management.
How to properly observe poop: find health signals in the details
1. Choose the right light: Light is very important in order to get an accurate view of the poop. It is advisable to choose bright light, which allows you to see subtle changes in color, shape, and texture more clearly. If the bathroom is not well lit, you can use a flashlight to assist in observation.
2. Pay attention to color changes
Normal poop is usually yellow-brown in color. If you notice that the poop is in an abnormal color such as black, red, and off-white, you need to pay special attention. Black may indicate upper GI bleeding, red may indicate lower GI bleeding, and grayish-white may be associated with biliary obstruction. Recording the color change of each bowel movement and communicating with your doctor in a timely manner can help detect potential problems early.
3. Observe the shape and texture
The shape and texture of the poop is also an important sign of health. The normal shape of the poop resembles a banana, soft and shaped. If the poo is thin strips, granular, or completely loose, it may indicate a problem with the intestines. Thin strips of stool may be associated with intestinal strictures or tumors, while granular stools may be a sign of constipation. The shape and texture of your poop can be improved by adjusting your diet, increasing your fiber intake, and more.
4. Smell the smell
Although the smell is unpleasant, it is also an indication of health. Normal poop has a mild odor, but if the smell is unusually foul, it may be related to problems such as indigestion and intestinal infections. Dietary modifications and probiotic intake can help improve poop odor.
5. Keep track of the frequency of bowel movements
Keeping track of the frequency of bowel movements is also an important part of monitoring your health. Normally, it is normal to have a bowel movement once a day or every other day. If there is a significant increase or decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, it may indicate a problem with the digestive system. For example, frequent diarrhea can be a sign of infection, while long-term constipation may be associated with intestinal dysfunction.
6. Feedback and Communication
Keep a record of the changes you observe in your poo and share this information with your doctor regularly. Not only does this help the doctor to better understand your health, but it also allows for further tests and treatment if necessary. Poop observation is an important part of self-health management, and many digestive diseases can be effectively prevented and treated by detecting abnormalities in time. Post-defecation observation is not only a simple health check-up, but also an important step in the early detection of diseases. By carefully observing the color, shape, texture and smell of poop, and recording and giving feedback in a timely manner, you can better grasp your own health and prevent potential health problems. I hope that everyone can pay attention to this simple but important health habit, find health signals from the details, and protect their health.