Colorectal Tumors in Adolescents and Young Adults
5 Health Issues From Frequent Urination
Frequent urination often signals underlying health conditions that require medical attention. While occasional increases in bathroom visits occur normally, persistent changes may indicate serious health issues requiring professional evaluation and treatment.
The impact of urinary tract infectionsUrinary tract infections represent one of the most common causes of frequent urination, particularly affecting women. These bacterial infections create significant discomfort and urgency in urination patterns. The shorter female urethra makes women especially susceptible to these infections.
Beyond frequent urination, UTIs often present with burning sensations, cloudy urine, and pelvic pain. In severe cases, blood may appear in the urine. Without proper treatment, these infections can spread to the kidneys, causing more serious complications. Early intervention with antibiotics typically resolves the infection and prevents long-term damage.
Diabetes and urinary frequencyBoth Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes commonly manifest through increased urination frequency. When blood glucose levels rise, kidneys work overtime to filter excess sugar from the blood, resulting in more frequent bathroom visits. This process often accompanies excessive thirst as the body attempts to maintain proper fluid balance.
The combination of frequent urination and increased thirst often serves as an early warning sign of diabetes. Additional symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. Proper diabetes management through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes can help control these symptoms and prevent serious complications.
Bladder health conditionsSeveral bladder conditions can trigger frequent urination. Interstitial cystitis and overactive bladder syndrome directly affect bladder function, creating persistent urges to urinate even when the bladder isn't full.
Interstitial cystitis causes chronic bladder pressure and pelvic pain, often accompanying frequent urination. The condition creates bladder inflammation and irritation, making even small amounts of urine uncomfortable to hold. Overactive bladder syndrome generates sudden, difficult-to-control urges to urinate through involuntary bladder contractions.
Treatment options include medications, bladder training exercises, and dietary modifications. Severe cases might require surgical intervention to provide relief from symptoms that significantly impact daily life.
Prostate complications in menMen frequently experience urination changes due to prostate issues, particularly as they age. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) occurs when the prostate gland enlarges, putting pressure on the urethra and affecting urinary flow.
Common symptoms include:
Regular prostate examinations help monitor these changes and prevent serious complications. Treatment options range from medications to surgical procedures, depending on severity and impact on quality of life.
Psychological factorsAnxiety and stress significantly influence urination patterns through the body's fight-or-flight response. During periods of heightened stress, bladder muscles may become overactive, increasing urination frequency.
This connection between mental state and physical symptoms often creates a challenging cycle. Stress can trigger frequent urination, which then increases anxiety about finding bathrooms, further exacerbating the problem.
Managing psychological causes requires:
Understanding these health issues helps individuals recognize when to seek medical attention. Key considerations include:
Health care providers can determine underlying causes through:
Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and prevents serious complications. Treatment success depends on accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical management of underlying conditions.
Maintaining awareness of these potential health issues while working closely with health care providers ensures proper treatment and improved quality of life. Regular medical check-ups and prompt attention to changes in urination patterns play crucial roles in maintaining overall health.
This story was created using AI technology.
The Best 16 Foods To Relieve Constipation Fast, According To A Dietitian
Constipation and the many remedies to offset it are common themes in my nutrition practice as a registered dietitian. Most of us will experience some degree of constipation at some point in our lives, and studies show that at least 15% of the population will experience chronic constipation. The reasons it occurs and its severity often determine the best treatment.
Fortunately, there are foods to avoid when you are feeling constipated, as well as plenty of foods to eat that can help you minimize symptoms.
What is constipation and why does it happen?Constipation occurs when bowel movements become difficult or infrequent. Usually, constipation is classified as fewer than three bowel movements a week, according to Cleveland Clinic. Another common sign of constipation is when bowel movements are hard, dry, or difficult to pass,
That said, whether an individual is experiencing constipation heavily depends on what a normal frequency is for them.
That's because the average number of bowel movements a day can vary by person, Dr. Ibrahim Hanouneh, gastroenterologist with MNGI Digestive Health in Minneapolis, Minnesota, tells TODAY.Com.
Some people might have three to four bowel movements a week while others have two to three a day, both of which can be healthy. Frequency is affected by factors like diet, activity level, stress, lifestyle changes, medications and health conditions, Hanouneh explains.
He says that the most important way to tell if you're struggling with constipation is how you feel. In other words, if you are having regular, normal-appearing bowel movements without straining or discomfort, your frequency is likely healthy for you.
In medical terms, there are two types of constipation:
The first line of treatment for constipation before other options are explored is often diet.
What foods help relieve constipation?There are many foods, most of which are high in fiber, that can help relieve constipation. That's because fiber binds to water and serves as a bulking agent in the body, helping food easily move from the mouth to the large intestine.
Focusing on foods that provide soluble (which may soften stool) and insoluble fiber (which helps move bulk through the intestinal system) is the key to reducing constipation. Nutrition experts recommend consuming between 25-35 grams of fiber every day.
These are my picks, based on the research, for the best foods to relieve constipation.
Water and other fluidsAdequate fluid consumption is one of the most important dietary components to help avoid constipation. Water makes it easier for food to pass through the gastrointestinal tract. When you're dehydrated, your body will soak up water from the food you eat, making your stool dry, hard and difficult to pass.
RaspberriesRaspberries are high in water and fiber, making them a perfect addition to help alleviate constipation. They also make an excellent snack and can be added to yogurt, oatmeal or smoothies.
Steel-cut oatsSteel-cut oats are loaded with soluble fiber, which helps to soften stool. They are a perfect choice for breakfast, as they boost fiber early in the day.
ApplesApples contain both insoluble fiber in the peel and soluble fiber in the flesh of the apple. One of the soluble fibers that apples contain is pectin — a type of fiber that studies have found to be a significant benefit to the microbiome and to assist in alleviating constipation. Pair apples with peanut butter for an even more substantial fiber boost.
QuinoaQuinoa is gluten-free and one of the only grains (it's considered a pseudo-grain since it's actually a seed) containing large amounts of protein and fiber. Quinoa is an excellent choice as a base for fiber- and nutrient-packed vegetable bowls or added to salads to boost protein.
Black beansBlack beans are a great option for plant-based burgers or fiber-rich dips. As another plant-based protein option, black beans have been associated with better gut health and may help in the prevention of multiple chronic conditions.
AvocadosAvocados are probably the best combination of healthy fat and fiber. A 2024 study found that consuming one avocado daily significantly improved overall diet quality. Put avocados on whole-grain toast or enjoy some guacamole with fiber-rich, high quality corn chips for a snack.
Brussels sproutsBrussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable (like broccoli and kale) and may help constipation due to their high fiber concentration. However, if constipation is coupled with gas or bloating, or if you are suffering from IBS, IBD, or other digestive issues, cruciferous vegetables may sometimes make constipation worse.
Peanut butterPeanut butter contains both fiber and magnesium. Magnesium has been associated with lower rates of constipation in multiple studies. Add peanut butter to smoothies and sauces or enjoy on celery.
Chia seedsChia seeds became a popular remedy for constipation on social media recently when influencers suggested mixing the seeds with water for a constipation remedy. The fiber and omega-3s in chia seeds make them an excellent dietary addition for better bowel movements and, potentially, better overall health.
ChickpeasChickpeas are packed with protein, fiber and flavor. Additionally, chickpea flour can make a great alternative to white flour, which is fiber-lacking, for pancakes, muffins, cookies and other breads.
PopcornPopcorn is a great snack to consider if you're trying to avoid constipation. Studies also show that popcorn is abundant in antioxidants, containing as much as many fruits and vegetables. The ideal way to enjoy popcorn is to consume it plain, without excess butter and sugar.
LentilsLentils contain prebiotic fiber and have been found in studies to help reduce overall inflammation. Consider lentil soup as your go-to for obtaining the hydration benefits of liquid with the lentils' fiber —a perfect combination to create more frequent bowel movements.
PrunesStudies have found that prunes and other dried fruits increase stool frequency and reduce the risk of constipation. Prunes can be consumed whole or as a juice.
WalnutsWalnuts are the only nut abundant in omega-3 fatty acids. Although all nuts have been shown to improve gastrointestinal health, walnuts have been studied extensively for their impact on the microbiome. Eat walnuts alone, mixed in with popcorn, or added to salads.
Kiwi fruitKiwi is a sweet alternative to fiber-lacking desserts. A 2022 study found that two kiwi fruit a day was as effective as psyllium, found in many over-the-counter laxatives, in treating constipation.
Foods to avoid when constipatedYou eliminate fiber from your diet when you venture outside the plant world. Therefore, consuming large amounts of protein and fat sources, such as red meat and dairy, without adding in plants may result in a low-fiber diet and an increased risk of constipation.
Here are some foods I'd recommend avoiding if you're struggling with constipation.
High-fat foodsFoods made with a lot of oil, butter or grease, such as fried foods and commercially baked goods, may lead to constipation, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Processed foodsConsuming foods stripped of fiber — such as processed and ultraprocessed foods like fast food and snacks — may keep fiber intake too low to move bulk through the system adequately. Processed meat especially can contribute to poor gut health, research shows.
DairyDairy may also be problematic for individuals trying to reduce constipation. Although dairy contains nutrients essential to the microbiome, studies show that for individuals who experience lactose intolerance, it can often lead to further constipation.
Other ways to relieve constipationIn addition to a nutrient-dense diet, regular physical activity and supplementation have often been common remedies for relieving constipation. A 2024 study found that individuals who engaged in a high level of physical activity were less likely to be constipated. This, in part, was due to exercise's role in increasing motility and reducing the transit time of food passing through the gastrointestinal tract.
Hanouneh's patients often inquire about supplemental remedies, as well. He says that fiber supplements, such as psyllium, are an excellent second-line option for managing constipation. Laxatives can also be used, short-term, if needed. Examples include:
Hanouneh cautions, however, that it is important to address the underlying cause of constipation rather than rely on laxatives, which can lead to dependency and cause the body to become less able to have a bowel movement without laxatives.
When to see a medical professional for constipationHanouneh explains that constipation becomes a medical issue when it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by alarming symptoms such as:
In any of those circumstances, or if you are simply unsure whether the constipation is of a medical concern, it is always best to consult your health care provider.
Constipation may have many causes, but it also has abundant remedies. Look to diet first when trying to reduce or relieve constipation, and consider consulting a physician if you feel symptoms are not improving with diet and other remedies.
Don't Sit On The Toilet For More Than 10 Minutes, Doctors Warn
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Let's be honest — people have a habit of bringing their phones to the bathroom. I've been guilty of it myself, and chances are that someone is on the toilet reading this article right now. A three-minute trip to the loo can easily turn into 15 minutes of reading, scrolling and posting.
It might seem a harmless way to pass the time when you're going number two. However, experts warn that what they call prolonged sitting on the toilet can harm your health. It's even been connected to an increased risk of hemorrhoids and weakened pelvic muscles, said Dr. Lai Xue, a colorectal surgeon at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
"When patients present to me with complaints, one of the main areas we have to delve deeply into is spending a lot of time on the toilet," Xue said.
Here's what is going on when you overstay your toilet time.
People should spend an average of five to 10 minutes on the john, according to Dr. Farah Monzur, an assistant professor of medicine and director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center at Stony Brook Medicine on Long Island, New York.
Why is it a problem if you stay longer? First, here's a short physics lesson. Gravity keeps us grounded on Earth, but that same gravity also forces the body to work harder to pump blood back up to the heart, Xue said.
The open oval-shaped toilet seat compresses the buttocks, keeping the rectum in a lower position than if you were sitting on the couch. With gravity pulling the lower half of the body down, the increased pressure affects your blood circulation.
"It becomes a one-way value where blood enters, but blood really can't go back," Xue said.
As a result, the veins and blood vessels surrounding the anus and lower rectum become enlarged and engorged with blood, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
Forced straining can also increase the pressure to allow hemorrhoids to build. People scrolling on their phones on the toilet tend to lose track of time, Monzur said, sitting and straining their muscles to get a bowel movement out.
And guess what? Your doctors can tell. "Nowadays, we're seeing an increase in people passing more time on the toilet, and that is very much unhealthy for the anorectal organs and the pelvic floor," Xue added.
In addition to weakened anal muscles and forced straining, Monzur said sitting on the toilet bowl for too long can also increase the risk of rectal prolapse. A rectal prolapse is when the rectum, part of the large intestine, slips down and bulges out of the anus.
The pelvic floor muscles are another type of muscle weakened from prolonged toilet sitting. Xue explained that pelvic floor muscles coordinate a significant amount of bowel movement and work with the rest of the body to ensure stool comes out smoothly. The gravitational pressure on the pelvic floor strains the muscles when constantly sitting for long periods.
To avoid spending too much time on the porcelain throne, Dr. Lance Uradomo, an interventional gastroenterologist at City of Hope Orange County in Irvine, California, advised keeping phones, magazines and books out of the bathroom.
"You don't want to go with the mindset that you will be there for a long time. Because then you'll want to bring something to keep the mind occupied," Monzur said. "Make sitting on the toilet bowl as uninteresting as possible."
If you're having trouble relieving yourself, Xue advised quitting after 10 minutes. Instead, walk around a bit — since the motion can stimulate gut muscles to produce a bowel movement. Xue also recommended getting hydrated and eating high-fiber foods such as oats and beans to produce regular bowel movements and avoid straining.
Need to know how much? The National Academy of Medicine recommends 2.7 to 3.7 liters of water daily. Additionally, the US Department of Agriculture recommends 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories of food. Xue said that fiber and water soften the stool, making it easier to pass.
Long bathroom times and colorectal cancerThere are situations, however, in which people have to spend an unusual amount of time on the toilet. Constant difficulty or discomfort when passing stool can be a symptom of gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn's disease.
Worsening constipation or a need to sit on the toilet for a long time may also be a sign of cancer. "If a growth inside the colon grows big enough, it can block the flow of your stool, which can cause constipation and bleeding," Uradomo said.
The American Cancer Society recently reported an increase in colorectal cancer rates among people under age 55 since the mid-1990s, and the nonprofit estimated there would be 106,590 new cases of colon cancer and 46,220 new cases of rectal cancer this year.
In Uradomo's career, he's recalled more young people talking to him about hemorrhoids and constipation and later being diagnosed with rectal cancer.
If you've had these symptoms of constipation or sitting on the toilet for a long time for more than three weeks, Monzur said it might be time to bring your concerns to your doctor. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, your primary care doctor can refer you to a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon for a closer look.
Jocelyn Solis-Moreira is a New York-based freelance health and science journalist.
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