Let's face it, nobody wants to talk about poop, let alone its smell. But, hey, it's a natural bodily function, and sometimes, things can get a bit stinky down there. So, let's dive into the reasons why your poop might suddenly be super smelly, when you should see a doctor, and how you can avoid those nasty odors.
What causes smelly poop?
First things first, let's talk about what causes your poop to smell. Now, we're not saying your poop should smell like roses, but if it's particularly pungent, it could be due to a few factors:
Your diet
Did you indulge in some extra garlic or spicy foods lately? Or maybe you've been eating too many eggs or broccoli. These types of foods can make your poop smell less than pleasant.
Dehydration
When you're dehydrated, your poop can become dry and hard, making it difficult to pass. This can lead to poop that is impacted in your colon, producing a buildup of gases and bacteria that smell worse than your gym socks. So, drink up that water and keep your poop smelling relatively normal.
Medications
Have you ever noticed that your poop smells worse than usual after taking certain medications? Well, you're not alone. Certain medications, such as antibiotics and some supplements, can wreak havoc on your gut bacteria, causing your poop to stink like a rotten egg. And let's not forget about those constipation-inducing medications that can leave you with poop that smells like a swamp.
Allergies
Food allergies can cause a whole host of unpleasant symptoms, including poop that smells like something you'd rather not think about. When you eat foods that your body is allergic to, it can cause inflammation in your digestive tract, leading to diarrhea and stinky poop. And let's be honest, nobody wants to smell like a dumpster fire.
Infections
Infections are another common cause of smelly poop. Gastrointestinal infections such as Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) can turn your poop into a stinky mess. These infections can cause inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and poop that smells like something died in there.
Malabsorption
Malabsorption is a fancy way of saying that your body isn't properly absorbing nutrients from the food you eat. This can lead to undigested food fermenting in your intestines, producing foul-smelling gases that make your poop smell like something you'd rather not talk about. Celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease are two conditions that can cause malabsorption and stinky poop.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the lining of your small intestine when you consume gluten. This can lead to malabsorption and changes in the odor of your poop. And let's not forget about those gluten-free foods that can leave your poop smelling like a science experiment gone wrong.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Gastrointestinal bleeding can cause our poop to become dark, tarry, and foul-smelling. This is because the blood that's being shed in our digestive tract mixes with our poop, creating an odor that could knock out a skunk. So, if you notice a change in the color or odor of your poop, it's important to talk to your doctor right away.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. This can lead to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and poop that smells like something that crawled out of the sewers. And let's be honest, nobody wants to be the person with the stinky poop at the party.
Cancer
In some cases, a change in the odor of your poop may be a sign of cancer. Colon cancer, for example, can cause changes in the appearance and odor of your poop, as well as other symptoms such as blood in your stool and unexplained weight loss. So, if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to talk to your doctor.
When should I see a doctor for super smelly poop?
While a little bit of stink is normal, if your poop smells like something died inside you, it might be time to see a doctor. Here are some signs to look out for:
- You're experiencing diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain.
- Your poop is an unusual color, like black or bright red.
- You're noticing blood in your stool.
- You're losing weight unexpectedly.
- You're feeling tired or feverish.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's time to call your doctor and get checked out.
How can I avoid smelly poops?
Nobody wants to be known as the stinky poop person, so here are a few things you can do to avoid those unpleasant odors:
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is key to keeping your poop healthy and smelling relatively normal.
Eat a balanced diet
Avoid overindulging in spicy or sulfurous foods and opt for a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help keep your digestive system running smoothly and prevent constipation.
Practice good hygiene
Make sure to wipe thoroughly and wash your hands after using the bathroom.
Avoid smoking and excessive drinking
These habits can wreak havoc on your digestive system and make your poop smell worse.
Final thoughts
While smelly poop may be a part of life, it doesn't have to be a source of embarrassment or discomfort. One way to ensure a clean and refreshing bathroom experience is by using Hibbent bidets. Not only does it eliminate the need for harsh toilet paper, but it also provides a gentle and hygienic cleaning that will leave you feeling fresh and clean.
So, there you have it, folks. Just remember, if your poop smells worse than usual and you're experiencing other symptoms, don't hesitate to call your doctor. And, as always, don't forget to flush!