What Causes Fatigue After Having Bowel Movements?

Posted on Tue, 25 Nov 2014

Question: Hi doctor,
I feel very week after I do number 2 , feel very faintly ;(

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Probably a vasovagal stimulation...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

Most likely this is a vaso-vagal reaction. One needs to tense their abdominal muscles and strain a bit during a bowel movement. This action stimulates the vagus nerve. A stimulated vagus nerve thus, slows the heart rate.

At the same time, when you tense your abdominal muscles, blood flow back to the heart decreases a bit. This results in a lower blood pressure.

The combination of a slower heart rate and lower blood pressure could make you feel lightheaded and weak.

Do not worry! This is a normal phenomenon which most of the individuals go through. If the weakness lasts long please consult your doctor for a complete evaluation.

Hope I have answered your query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (13 hours later)

Hi Dr, thank you for you email .

This is very interesting conversation what you are saying keep happening to me this simtome

- heart palpitation feeling fainty week dissy for quite a wile now .

What do I need to do about it ?? What do you suggest ??

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please consult your physician/cardiologist...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

I sincerely apologize for the delay in answering the query, due to my busy schedule.

I would suggest you to consult your physician/cardiologist and get a thorough evaluation done. You would require blood pressure to be checked in 3 different positions, an ECG and evaluation of the cardiac status. Also, you may require examination of blood to check for hemoglobin status and the stools for any occult bleeding.

Hope this clears your doubts. I wish you good health and good luck.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad