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‘I have dark green stool, stomach cramps, constant gurgling, bloating, and my stomach is tender to the touch. What causes it?’

Imagine going to the bathroom and finding that your feces are green. Add bloating, cramps and gurgling into the picture. Sounds alarming, right? Quora was the place where one such internet user sought answers. He asked: ‘What is the cause of dark green stools and stomach cramps?” I have dark-green stool, stomach cramps and constant gurgling. My stomach is also tender to the touch. We decided to dig deeper to find the exact cause. Turns out, dark green stool is typically associated with the “rate at which food passes through your gut” — as explained by Dr Harshal Ghanshyam Pise, Associate Consultant, Gastroenterology, ShardaCare-Healthcity.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. This is usually caused by stress or mild infections. Green stool is often caused by stress or mild infection. It can also be due to what you ate. For example, eating spinach, broccoli, or foods with artificial colouring or iron supplements can cause the stool to turn green. It could be due to what you ate, or the faster digestion of your bile caused by stress or mild infections. ‘How can I tell if my chest pain is due to gas or a heart problem?'”An infection is typically the cause of gastroenteritis and it is usually accompanied by diarrhea, vomiting or fever,” Dr Pise explains.On the other hand, IBS presents differently. IBS is a chronic digestive condition that is associated with gut sensitivity, stress, and bloating, bowel irregularities, and discomfort without infection. Story continues below this adWhen to see a doctor? “In severe, persistent or progressive symptoms, you should seek medical attention,” Dr Pise recommends. “The warning symptoms are high fever, severe stomachache (dry mouth, low urinary output), persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 2-3 days.” Other symptoms such as “incomprehensible” weight loss and acute fatigue should not be ignored. Addiitonally, certain age groups, such as children, the aged, and those with low immunity, should seek care earlier.”Although mild symptoms can resolve on their own, early consultation can be used to prevent complications and guarantee correct diagnosis and treatment,” Dr Pise concludes.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Consult your doctor before beginning any new routine.

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‘I’m not 19 anymore’: What PV Sindhu’s post reveals about post-30 fitness

PV Sindhu’s thoughts on recovery as we age. (Source: Instagram/@pvsindhu1)Indian badminton legend PV Sindhu’s latest Instagram post highlights how age catches up with an athlete’s recovery process, taking them by surprise. “Two games in two hours. Must-win tie. My body politely reminding that I’m no longer 19 anymore. Glad to win both,” she wrote in the caption to a photo of her sitting on the chair with ice pack strapped to her shoulder and knee joints. Consult your doctor before beginning any new routine. Dr Shrey Srivastav is an Internal Medicine specialist from Sharda Hospital. He explained that overexercising could lead to muscle strain or posture imbalance. Many older athletes are under pressure to keep up with the latest fitness trends, or to push through discomfort for the sake of discipline. Many people overlook the importance of warming-up, recovery and gradual progression because they believe that more intensity will lead to better results. Overexercising may be harmful to anyone, but it is more dangerous for people over 30. He said that overexercising can cause intracranial hemorrhage and brain haemorrhage. Morbidly obese individuals are also at risk, as they “generally end up over-exercising which can lead tendon tears, cardiac arrest, or brain haemorrhage”. He suggested isometric exercise as they are great for weight loss and strengthening muscles. Sindhu between matches. (Source: Instagram/@pvsindhu1)What kind of exercise should they do? According to Dr Srivastav “There are two types of exercise – Isometric and Isotonic.” In isometrics, the length of exercise remains the exact same, while in isotonics, the tension stays the same. Isometric exercise is good for people over 30. They should choose cardio exercises.” Mindset is more important than most people realize. There are many rehab professionals who will guide you and assist you on your recovery journey. PV Sindhu exercises with husband Venkata Datta Sai upon returning to India from the UAE: ‘Nothing like a good workout’It is in your best interest to return to your normal activities as early as possible while still trying to modify your recovery process to suit your needs. It may take a lot more trial and error to reach your goal. Continue reading below this ad. Reduced pain, better range of motion, improved balance, and an increased confidence in movement are all signs. Dr Choudhary said, “Scars fade and strength gradually returns. Everyday activities begin to feel normal again.”

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‘Rare jewel of Eastern Ghats’: Why Pawan Kalyan is championing the survival of endangered Peacock Tarantula

Andhra Pradesh is preparing to protect the Peacock Tarantula. (Source: X/@APDeputyCMO). The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department has launched a conservation status study of the Peacock Tarantula within the vast landscape of Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve. The project was launched by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minster N Chandrababu Naidu, and Deputy Chief Minster Pawan Kalyan, to conserve a species which is not only critically endangered but also endemic in a small region of Eastern Ghats. This makes it “one of the world’s most vulnerable arachnids”. He also stressed the importance of protecting peacock spiders because of their rarity. “Conservation isn’t only about iconic species, it’s about protecting the rare and endemic,” he wrote. This spider species is found primarily in deciduous forests in central and southern India. It has a distinctive blue hue that darkens as it matures. H.R.P. sent the first specimen to the British Museum in London in 1898. Carter received it from H.C. West of the Madras Railway, the chief engineer. The tarantula feeds on a variety insects, such as grasshoppers, crickets and other small bugs. This natural predation helps regulate insect numbers, preventing potential outbreaks and ensuring that no single insect species overwhelms the ecosystem,” he tells indianexpress.com.Maintaining a healthy ecological balance and vibrant ecosystem is key to the survival of arachnids. Why this spider feeds its babies ‘milk’According to the expert, maintaining a healthy ecological balance and vibrant ecosystem is key to the survival of arachnids. “Unfortunately, our country is a tiger-centric one that has neglected hundreds or endangered or threatened species. It is important to remember that each species relies on a particular habitat, diet, or climate that has allowed it to survive for millions of year. Story continues below this advertisement. Losing one species can have a negative impact on hundreds of species that are interdependent. “Preserve habitats, protect life,” he echoes in conclusion.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to.

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Shoaib Ibrahim says doctors advised him that ground black coffee is better for liver than instant mixes: ‘Dipika has also started it’

Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar enjoy black coffee (Photo: Shoaib Ibrahim/YouTube)Shoaib Ibrahim recently shared on his YouTube vlog that Dipika Kakar’s doctors have told him that black coffee is good for the liver. “Now I’ll have black coffee.” Our doctor told us instant mixes were not very effective. It is best to grind coffee beans, use a coffee machine to make and drink freshly brewed coffee. He said, “It is better for the liver.” He shared this while drinking a cup. “One should consume 3-4 cups black coffee per day. Dipika is also doing it. I drink two or more a day. This article is based solely on information that we obtained from public sources and/or experts. Consult your doctor before beginning any new routine. It contains natural compounds and anti-oxidants that may reduce inflammation and slow the fat buildup in your liver. Dr Sharma said that some research suggests that drinking regular coffee may lower the risk for fatty livers and support liver function. Why is fresh coffee preferred to instant mixes?Dr Sharma stated that freshly brewed coffee, made from ground coffee beans, is usually free of added sugars and artificial flavours. These additives can increase calories and negatively impact metabolism. Black coffee is effective? Is it safe to drink 3-4 cups of coffee a day? (Photo: Freepik). For most healthy adults, 2-3 cups of black tea or coffee throughout the day are generally safe. “Some people are able to handle 3-4 cups of coffee, but it depends on their caffeine sensitivity. Too much caffeine can cause acidity, disturbed sleep, and restlessness. It’s best to adjust your intake according to how your body feels,” Dr Sharma said. Story continues below this adIs drinking coffee before exercising okay?Yes, black coffee can improve alertness levels and energy. Some people may find that it improves their workout performance. ‘How can I quit coffee? I have been avoiding coffee for two days and still get headaches. My BP is on the rise and my doctor says quitting coffee could help lower it. Consult your doctor before beginning any new routine.

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Ira Khan discusses mental health, calls husband Nupur Shikhare empathetic: ‘Kabhi kabhi, woh mere depression se thak jaata hai’

Ira Khan recently opened up about having “cyclical depression,” adding that her husband, Nupur Shikhare, is empathetic. “We have arguments. Kabhi kabhi, woh mere depression se thak jaata hai (Sometimes, he gets tired of my depression). I have cyclical depression…it comes in phases…sometimes, there are dips. Both of us are now better at catching them,” she mentioned in a chat with Vibhor Adnani on his Instagram page, Shutter Bonsai.

Nupur added, “You want to call it depression or whatever…You keep it. I don’t understand….all I understand is that you are in pain. So, we’ll do whatever is needed for that. We’ll fight with this together.”

Ira, who is actor Aamir Khan’s daughter, added, “I think in words. He thinks in feelings. He’s very empathetic.”

Depression is not always constant, said psychotherapist and life coach Delnna Rrajesh. “For many individuals, especially those with recurrent or cyclical depression, it comes in phases. There are periods of emotional heaviness, low motivation, withdrawal, and numbness or exhaustion, followed by phases where things feel relatively stable again. From a psychotherapy perspective, this unpredictability can be difficult for both the individual and their partner. Because just when things seem better, the cycle may return,” expressed Delnna.

From a mental health and emotional intelligence perspective, caregivers often experience emotional fatigue, helplessness when nothing seems to work, and guilt for feeling exhausted. “There may be confusion about how to respond. This is rarely spoken about,” shared Delnna.

relationships Here’s how support matters (Photo: Freepik)

Supporting someone with depression requires emotional awareness, boundaries, and sustainable care. “Not just effort,” said Delnna.

Understand without trying to fix

You do not always need solutions. From an emotional healing perspective, feeling seen reduces isolation.

Do not take their low phase personally

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When someone withdraws or becomes quiet, it is often their internal struggle, not a reflection of the relationship.
From a relationship psychology perspective, separating the person from the condition is essential.

Encourage professional support without forcing it

Therapy, counselling, and structured mental health support are crucial. A partner can support, but cannot replace professional help.

Create small anchors, not big expectations

Instead of trying to “lift them up,” focus on small, manageable actions:
*a short walk
*a meal together
*sitting in silence

From a mental health perspective, consistency matters more than intensity.

Take care of our own emotional health

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This is the most important and most ignored step.
If you are constantly giving without refilling, burnout is inevitable.
Support yourself through:
* your own emotional outlets
* boundaries around energy
* time to rest and recharge
From an emotional intelligence perspective, you cannot pour from an empty space.

Normalise honest conversations

It is okay to say:
“I am here for you… and I also feel overwhelmed sometimes.”
This creates a space of honesty, not silent pressure.

When Ira Khan acknowledged that her partner gets tired sometimes, she did something powerful. “She normalised both sides of the experience. The one who is struggling. And the one who is supporting. Because real love is not just about standing strong. It is also about allowing space for vulnerability on both sides.”

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If you are supporting someone through depression, remember this:

*Your presence matters.
*But your well-being matters too.
*And sometimes, the strongest form of love is not trying to carry everything.
*It is learning to walk beside each other… even on the difficult days.

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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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‘I had a bilirubin total of 2.3mg/dl, but don’t have any symptoms. Could it be serious?’

A bilirubin level of 2.3 mg/dL in an asymptomatic person is often mild and may be harmless (Images: Freepik)

Whether or not you know how to interpret your medical reports with absolute precision, elevated levels of any of the mentioned parameters can strike panic. One such common medical term that might raise suspicion is bilirubin, which is commonly assumed to rise in cases of liver distress.

One such confused internet user shared his experience on Quora, seeking answers. The query read: ‘I had a bilirubin total of 2.3mg/dl, but I don’t have any symptoms. Could it be serious?’

We decided to dig deeper and reached out to Dr Chetan Kalal, Assistant Director Hepatologist at Gleneagles Hospital Parel, who assures that this number on its own is not necessarily a cause for alarm.

“A routine blood test showing total bilirubin of 2.3 mg/dL can create unnecessary anxiety, especially in someone who feels perfectly healthy,” the liver specialist explains. “While this value is above the usual normal range, it does not automatically indicate serious liver disease.”

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

What does bilirubin actually indicate?

Even if a person has no symptoms, persistent or rising bilirubin levels should be medically reviewed (Image: Wikimedia commons)

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. The liver processes it and helps remove it from the body. So, when levels rise, it can sometimes hint at liver-related issues—but not always.

One of the most common benign causes of elevated bilirubin levels is Gilbert syndrome, a mild inherited condition.

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“People with Gilbert syndrome are otherwise healthy and may show mildly elevated bilirubin levels during fasting, stress, dehydration, illness, lack of sleep or strenuous exercise,” says Dr Kalal.

He further clarifies that this condition is not dangerous, doesn’t cause liver damage, and usually requires “no treatment.”

Even without Gilbert syndrome, bilirubin levels can fluctuate due to everyday factors such as :

Mild dehydration
Fasting or crash dietingRecent viral illness
Intense physical exertion
Certain medications
Increased breakdown of red blood cells
Early liver or bile duct conditions

Also Read | ‘What are the potential risks of taking high-dose vitamin D supplements for an extended period of time?’

When should your bilirubin count worry you?

While a single elevated reading may not mean much, persistent or rising levels should not be ignored.

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“The key question is not just how high the bilirubin is, but what type of bilirubin is elevated and whether other liver markers are normal,” Dr Kalal emphasises.

Seek medical attention if you notice symptoms such as:

Yellowing of eyes or skin
Dark urine
Pale stools
Abdominal pain
Fever
Fatigue or loss of appetite
Unexplained weight loss

If you have been experiencing any of these, doctors may recommend following tests to find out the exact cause:

Direct and indirect bilirubin levels
Liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, GGT)
Complete blood count
Tests for red blood cell breakdown
Albumin and INR
Ultrasound abdomen, if needed

“A bilirubin level of 2.3 mg/dL in an asymptomatic person is often mild and may be harmless, especially if all other tests are normal. However, it should not be ignored without proper interpretation,” Dr Kalal concludes.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.