Going for a wee is one of those things many of us do without paying it a second thought. But keeping tabs on your wee – including how often you visit the toilet – is a great way to monitor your bladder, kidney and liver health.
Most of the things you spot will likely be harmless. “Most bladder symptoms are caused by common, treatable conditions,” explains Dr Masarat Jilani, a genitourinary health expert and in-house GP at the bladder health supplement brand Jude. “But because some symptoms can overlap with more serious problems, it’s important not to dismiss some key changes in your urinary habits.”
As with all areas of your health, a bit of common sense is key. For example, if you’ve drunk lots of water, consumed more alcohol or caffeine than usual or are under a lot of stress, then it’s normal to notice changes in the colour of your wee, how often you go to the toilet and how urgent your need to go is.
But there are some symptoms you should never ignore (especially when there are no obvious causes), and being aware of them can help you work out when you need to speak to your GP. Here’s what to look out for.
Blood in your wee
