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Daily Mirror
29-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Doctor explains colour poo should be - and the one that means you're ill
Your toilet habits can reveal a lot about your diet, gut, fluid intake, and even stress levels You may not believe it, but the colour of your poo can reveal a lot about your diet, gut health, hydration levels and even stress levels, according to a GP. While there is no such thing as the perfect poo, there are certain things to keep an eye out for. For instance, it is normal to have a bowel movement anywhere from once a day to once every three days, but it should be soft and easy to pass. You should not need to strain or experience any discomfort. Dr Bhavini Shah, a GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, has shed light on what the colour of your stools might mean. Brown A brown stool is a sign that your bowel movements are normal and healthy, and there's no need to worry as long as you are not experiencing any other symptoms. Green A green stool could be the result of eating leafy green vegetables, consuming products with green food dye, or taking antibiotics. However, green faeces could also be a sign of illnesses like gastroenteritis. Yellow Yellow stools could be a sign of an infection in the bowel. Problems with the pancreas could also lead to yellow stools, possibly due to a decrease in the production or secretion of pancreatic enzymes into the digestive system. Grey/Pale Stools that are pale, clay-coloured, or putty-like could indicate problems in the biliary system, which is the drainage system of the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas. A grey stool could be the result of medications used to treat diarrhoea, or it could signal issues with the liver or pancreas due to blocked ducts - it can also be caused by cancer or non-cancerous (benign) tumours of the liver, biliary system, or pancreas. Red It is crucial to get a red stool checked out, as it could be a sign of rectal bleeding, which might indicate bowel cancer. Other symptoms of bowel cancer can include unexplained fatigue and unintentional weight loss. Any blood in the stool should always be investigated. Black Black stool can occur if certain medications are taken. However, it can also suggest a health issue, such as bleeding in the stomach or haemorrhoids. If you notice any changes to the colour of your stools and are worried, you should always seek advice from a medical professional. Get experts' health advice straight to your WhatsApp! As experts react to the latest health threats and changing advice, the Mirror has launched its very own Health & Wellbeing WhatsApp community where you'll get health updates and news straight to your phone. We'll send you the latest breaking updates and exclusives all directly to your phone. Users must download or already have WhatsApp on their phones to join in. All you have to do to join is click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! We may also send you stories from other titles across the Reach group. We will also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. What is the shape and texture of my stool telling me? A healthy bowel movement should resemble a sausage-like shape, either smooth in texture or with cracks on the surface. According to the NHS website, constipation is present if a patient is experiencing poo that is unusually large or small, and is dry, hard or lumpy. Straining or in pain when having a poo If you're plagued by constipation, it's recommended to gradually up your fibre intake to at least 30g a day. Foods rich in fibre include porridge oats, whole wheat pasta, beans, lentils, wheat bran, and linseed. Not only does a high-fibre diet lower the risk of bowel cancer, but it also reduces the likelihood of other health issues such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. The NHS also advises maintaining a healthy, balanced diet (including sorbitol-rich fruits like apples, apricots, grapes and raisins, raspberries, and strawberries), staying well-hydrated, and steering clear of alcohol. A stool that's more liquid than solid is a tell-tale sign of diarrhoea. While this usually resolves itself, it's crucial to keep an eye on each trip to the loo. Loose stools could be a symptom of a virus, bacteria (often from contaminated food), or a parasite, which can be spread through contaminated water. Staying hydrated is vital when dealing with diarrhoea, so make sure you're replenishing the fluids, sugars, salts and minerals lost with each bowel movement. However, if you are worried or regularly experiencing constipation or loose stools, it's time to have a chat with your GP. When should I see a GP? You should always consult a GP if you notice blood in your stool, experience sudden weight loss or unusual fatigue, or develop abnormal stomach cramps. Essentially, if you notice any change in bowel habits, stool or colour, it's probably nothing to worry about, but getting any discomfort checked is very important.
Daily Record
28-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
GP's top 10 tips to quit vaping ahead of disposables ban
It will be illegal to sell disposable vapes in the UK from Sunday, June 1- here's how to quit. The UK-wide ban on disposable vapes will come into force from this Sunday, June 1, when it will become outlawed to sell the colourful throwaway nicotine sticks. But although reusable vaping products will remain on our shelves, the ban is expected to spark incentive for many vapers to quit, especially given the recently discovered health consequences of vaping. The first study into the health effects of vaping, released in February, found that prolonged use can lead to heart disease, organ failure and even dementia. So, along with the ban, which aims to protect the environment and deter kids from vaping, it's no surprise that many who have a habit of puffing on the nicotine products will be looking to quit. GP Dr Bhavini Shah of LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor has shared some expert tips on how to quit vaping, just in time for the UK ban. She also shares why it's so hard to kick the nasty habit. Here's her expert medical advice on how to stop vaping for good. Why is it so hard to quit vaping? 'Most vapes contain nicotine, the same addictive substance as tobacco", shared the GP. "Nicotine can temporarily make you feel good, which is why you may often reach for your vape. The more you vape the more your body and brain get used to having nicotine. When you stop you may experience uncomfortable symptoms.' Nicotine withdrawal symptoms When you stop using nicotine, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as: Irritability Anxiety Difficulty concentrating Increased appetite Strong cravings 'These symptoms may be uncomfortable and unpleasant, but nicotine withdrawal can't hurt you", added the expert. How long does it take to stop vaping? The doctor explained: 'How long it takes to stop vaping depends on how much nicotine you vape, as this will influence the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. 'You could go 'cold turkey' and stop vaping suddenly, although this method often doesn't work. The NHS recommends stopping vaping gradually and when you're sure you won't go back to smoking cigarettes.' So how long it takes to stop vaping is up to you, however you can expect to experience: Withdrawal symptoms around 8 hours after your last vape After 24 hours withdrawal and cravings will start to peak At 72 hours (about 3 days) your withdrawals will be peaking, expect to feel irritable and have intense cravings to vape 'After 2-4 weeks your withdrawal symptoms should pass. This is where you'll need to focus on lifestyle changes and new habits to replace the time you spent vaping", continued the medical expert. Top 10 tips to quit vaping Reduce the strength of nicotine in your vape over time Create vaping rules - only vape on your breaks at work or outside your home Write down the reasons you want to quit Set a quit date Avoid your triggers (what makes you reach for the vape) Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) - You could use nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, or inhalers Get help –Join a support group or find your local Stop Smoking Service Stay active - Exercise can help reduce cravings Manage stress – Meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help manage stress Keep your hands and mouth busy - Use sugar-free lollipops, straws, or stress balls Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Metro
20-05-2025
- Health
- Metro
What your toes say about your health — 8 warning signs to look out for
Next time you're giving yourself a pedicure, consider looking beyond which shade of polish best compliments your favourite sandals. 'While often overlooked, your toenails and feet play a huge role in your overall health and it's important to pay attention to their condition,' says Sheena Bagga, pharmacist prescriber at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor. Although many problems with toes and nails are easy to treat, changes to their appearance can be clues that something more sinister needsprofessional medical attention. Here, she tells Metro the main symptoms to look out for, and the different health issues each signal might point to. 'Yellow discolouration can indicate a toenail infection, which can occur on any part of the nail,' Sheena explains. 'This causes the nail to discolour, become crumbly, or thicken.' Alternatively, yellowing could be down to nail psoriasis, but this typically comes alongside pitting or patches, and it may also be lifted from the nail bed underneath. To prevent infections, the advice is to keep your nails short and clean, wear a clean pair of socks every day, and ensure your shoes fit correctly. A brown or black band running lengthwise along the nail – known as melanonychia – is normally nothing to worry about. When the cause is benign, it's likely either a variation in pigmentation or the result of an injury. But in some rare cases, Sheena says it's 'a tell-tale sign' of a type of skin cancer called Subungual Melanoma – so if you're concerned, it's worth getting it checked out. According to Sheena, toe swelling can be caused by a number of conditions, including lymphatic issues, poor blood flow, or even gout. 'Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterised by sudden, severe joint pain, often in the big toe, caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints,' she explains. 'It is more likely to occur in people who are overweight, and consum There are less serious reasons for swelling though, including: Sitting or standing for long periods of time Wearing shoes that are too small Being overweight, dehydrated, or eating a diet that's heavy in salt Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can help with some of these common issues, along with regular exercise and movement, but it's recommended to speak to your GP if you also experience symptoms like pain, aching, or difficulty moving. White lines or spots on the nail are called leukonychia, and are often caused by trauma such as stubbing your toe. However, these can sometimes can be a sign of deficiencies in protein, zinc, or iron, or of a fungal infections if the nail is also brittle and crumbly. 'Although rare, fully white nails are slightly more concerning and could be an indicator of a systematic illness in another part of the body,' adds Sheena. 'These include liver cirrhosis, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes.' If you're concerned and are experiencing additional side effects, contact your GP to help identify the cause. Always got cold feet? It could be a sign of poor circulation, which can also leave your toes with a bluish discolouration. More specifically, blue-tinged toes are a symptom of a condition called Raynaud's disease, which 'causes narrowing of the smaller arteries which supply blood to the extremities.' A doctor will be able to provide advice if you're having circulation problems, but Sheena notes that regular exercise can also be beneficial for managing the symptoms. Athlete's Foot is a common fungal infection that shows as itchy white patches between your toes. 'It can also affect the soles or sides of your feet, sometimes causing fluid-filled blisters,' Sheena adds. While it can be dealt with through over-the-counter remedies, prevention is better than cure. As such, you should make sure to completely dry your feet after washing them – especially between your toes – and wear clean socks every day, ideally cotton ones which allow the skin to breathe more easily. We've all ended up with a blister after a day on our feet, but ulcers are different – and much more worrying if you have diabetes. 'Unlike a blister that occurs under the skin, an ulcer is a break in the skin's surface, appearing as an open wound,' says Sheena. 'During the time the wound is exposed, it can leave you vulnerable to developing an infection, which in serious cases can lead to amputation.' Toenails that change shape and look curved, concave or 'spoon' shaped could indicate an iron deficiency or anaemia. More Trending Sheena says: 'Iron is essential for producing healthy red blood cells and maintaining proper nail health, so it's important to speak to a healthcare provider who may recommend taking a supplement.' Each person's toes look different, but healthy nails should have a smooth surface with light pink or translucent colouration and little variation in shade. View More » Keep this in mind, and hot foot it to your doctor if you think something could be wrong. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@
Daily Record
05-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
GP warns of common food allergy that can be mistaken for hay fever
As we hit hay fever season, a top doctor has explained what the condition is and the main trigger foods Summer is fast approaching and while many of us are looking forward to warmer weather, for hay fever sufferers, it's the beginning of what can be a challenging few months. The Met Office recently confirmed that the tree pollen season has already started, with the first pollen being detected as early as February in some parts of the country. Twenty per cent of people in the UK are affected by hay fever, but GPs have warned that some people who think they are suffering from hay fever may actually have a food allergy that affects one in 50 - but few know about. Pollen Food Syndrome (PFS), also referred to as oral allergy syndrome, is a hypersensitivity reaction to plant based foods like fruits, vegetables and nuts. When people with this condition eat these foods in their raw form, it can cause mild irritant symptoms including itching of the mouth, lips and throat. PFS often occurs in people who get spring or summertime hay fever. According to a OnePulse survey of 500 UK adults conducted by LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, although more than half said they suffer from hay fever, 78 per cent hadn't heard of pollen food syndrome. Luckily, Dr Sabah Salman, GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, has come to the rescue to explain to Record readers what the condition is, the main trigger foods and what to do if you think you might have pollen food syndrome. What is pollen food syndrome? "Many plant based foods, such as fruit and cereals, have a protein structure that is very similar in shape to the pollen in the sorts of trees, grasses and weeds that cause hay fever," Dr Sabah explained. "Your immune system doesn't always recognise the difference between the pollen you breathe in from things like trees, and the pollen structure in the plant based foods you eat. "Essentially, pollen food syndrome results when the immune system recognises the food protein you eat as an allergen and creates an allergic reaction, resulting in similar symptoms to hay fever." Which foods cause pollen food syndrome? Fresh fruit, raw vegetables and raw nuts are the kinds of foods that trigger pollen food syndrome. "Although almost any fruit, vegetable or nut can cause a reaction, in particular, raw apples, fresh peaches, kiwi, hazelnuts and almonds are common triggers," Dr Sabah pointed out. "On average, those with pollen fruit syndrome will need to avoid four plant foods." Common pollen food syndrome trigger foods Foods including fresh fruit, raw vegetables and raw nuts can trigger pollen food syndrome, like the ones below: What are the symptoms of pollen food syndrome? "Symptoms are usually mild and tend to occur within 10 minutes of eating the allergic food," Dr Sabah said. "These symptoms can include redness, itching and mild swelling of the lips, tongue, inside of the mouth, ears and throat. "Some people notice symptoms just from food preparation. For example, food particles in the air can trigger sneezing, a runny nose and eye irritation, and peeling fruit and vegetables may cause skin irritation. "Although rare, more extreme symptoms like nausea, vomiting, trouble swallowing, and breathing difficulties can occur. Of course, in this case you should always seek urgent medical treatment." What should I do if I have a reaction? "Generally, mild pollen food syndrome symptoms settle within an hour, without treatment," Dr Sabah noted. "All you will need to do is stop eating the food, and drink some water to stop the symptoms. "However, if you're concerned or your symptoms are unpleasant, you could also take a non-sedating antihistamine. "If you have taken an antihistamine but your symptoms are not improving, you should seek medical advice. "If you have a food allergic reaction which affects your breathing or circulation, for example, causing faintness, do not rely on antihistamines or an asthma inhaler. Instead, speak to a medical provider urgently." How is pollen food syndrome diagnosed? "If you experience symptoms of pollen food syndrome, you should book a doctor's appointment. "Often, pollen food syndrome can be diagnosed without further testing," Dr Sabah continued. "However, you may be referred to have a blood test or skin prick testing to confirm a diagnosis." How can I prevent reactions? "Reactions can be prevented by avoiding allergenic food in its raw form or other triggers," Dr Sabah concluded. "Once well cooked or tinned, the allergens will have been denatured and should not cause an issue. This means a soup containing allergic food may not cause symptoms but a stir-fried be an issue. "Some people also find that they can tolerate certain varieties of the same food. For example, one variety of apple may cause reactions, whereas another may not. "If food preparation triggers your symptoms, wearing gloves or peeling allergic foods under running water can be an effective workaround. "If you do have to cut certain triggering plant foods out of your diet, ensure you replace these with other, tolerated foods." The expert went on: "If you have been prescribed allergy treatment for other allergies, such as asthma and hay fever, you must keep taking these as this will help to control symptoms of pollen food syndrome. "If you've experienced a severe reaction in the past, such as anaphylaxis or breathing difficulties, you may also be prescribed an adrenaline pen." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
Metro
01-05-2025
- Health
- Metro
Slower than usual? The warm weather is affecting your brain
Feeling sluggish? You're not alone. The UK has been basking in high temperatures, with some parts of the country set to reach 29C. But, as we all flock to beer gardens to enjoy the mini heatwave, our brains could be struggling to cope. It all comes down to our own body temperature, and how hard the brain works to regulate it. 'The temperature that the body needs to stay within is an unbelievably narrow window,' consultant neurologist, Dr Steve Allder, tells Metro. 'If your temperature rises from 37C to 41C there's a very good chance that it would kill you. Similarly, if it dropped from 37C to 33C, you would really start to struggle. 'The body really has to work hard to keep our temperature in a tight range, especially in hot weather, and that then takes energy away from the brain.' A&E doctor, Dr Mark Cox tells Metro: 'When you're hot, your body is in a constant state of thermoregulation (keeping your temperature stable). 'This burns energy and diverts blood flow toward the skin to release heat, which means less energy and oxygen get to your brain.' So, now we know the science – what does that mean for how you feel? 'You'll notice it in things like memory lapses, poor concentration and slower decision-making,' Dr Mark says. And while we all might find ourselves getting a bit, well, aggy, in hot weather, Dr Mark says that's to do with your brain too. Dr Sameer Sanghvi, GP at Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, warns that hot weather can be particularly dangerous for people taking antidepressants. He explains: 'Common antidepressants can all stop the temperature-regulating area of the brain from functioning as it should. Serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors(SNRIS) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIS) are some of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants.' If you are prescribed these antidepressants, Dr Sanghvi warns not to suddenly stop taking them. 'You should always consult your doctor before making changes to your mental health medication,' he adds. 'The best thing you can do is take precautions to stay cool: stick to the shade; drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol.' 'Heat can amplify reactivity in the brain's emotion centre, the amygdala, and reduce the calming influence of the parasympathetic nervous system,' says Dr Mark, co-founder of Orli Health. More Trending 'That makes people more prone to irritability, impulsiveness and even aggression.' For those with existing neurological conditions, warm weather can cause these symptoms to worsen. Dr Steve, who works at Re: Cognition, says that those with multiple sclerosis, for example, 'will have far less resilience' to cope with temperature changes. He adds: 'This is also true for something like migraines. People find that they get more migraines when it gets hot.' If your body can't cool itself down, you risk developing heat exhaustion, which could progress to heat stroke if left untreated, a life-threatening condition. Dr Allder says that those doing prolonged exercise in the sun should be careful of developing heat stroke, especially if they're not taking in enough fluids. He adds: 'Make sure to stop if you feel lightheaded or woozy.' To protect yourself from the temperature changes, Dr Allder advises avoiding the sun, hydrating and resting. Most adults should aim to drink at least six to eight glasses a day (around 1.5-2 litres), but Dr Allder advises getting an extra 500ml to 1 litre per day. According to the NHS, the signs of heat exhaustion include: Weakness Tiredness Dizziness Headache Feeling sick or being sick Excessive sweating and skin becoming pale and clammy, or getting a rash Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach Fast breathing or heartbeat A high temperature Being very thirsty If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be cooled won and given fluids, the NHS website says. Heat exhaustion does not usually need medical help if you can cool down within 30 minutes. However, if it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ View More » MORE: Exact date 'mini-heatwave' will hit UK with temperatures as high as 27°C MORE: London Marathon 2025 forecast: What will the weather be like for the big race? MORE: Bulldog Skincare launches new Anytime Daily UV Moisturiser SPF 50 – and it's perfectly timed for summer
