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What Causes Tiredness Post Defecation?

Posted on Mon, 15 Dec 2014

Question: Back in July (4 months ago) I was shocked at work(high volts low amps). The shock didn't really do anything to me but sting ( I wasn't knocked out, or thrown away from it, I didn't even have a Mark on my hand where i was electrocuted) But from that point I became constipated, had a loss in appetite and slight weight loss (I'm assuming from my loss of appetite). I had an EKG, CT scan, Ultrasound, colonoscopy, endoscopy and all standard blood work done(as well as vitamin B, gulten, thyroid, and lactose), everything came back normal. I saw a GI specialist who put me on fiber, Miralax and a probiotic. After about 6-8 weeks I started feeling better, my appetite is back, I've gained weight back and I'm having normal bowel movements. But what I do notice is every once in awhile I feel REALLY run down and tired, until I have a bowel movement and then I feel normal almost instantly. Any idea what may cause this?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
detailed below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Welcome to Healthcare Magic.

I read carefully your query and understand your concern.

This problem you are facing (feeling really tired until you have a bowel movement and feeling normal after that) doesn't seem to be related with a specific medical condition.
If it would be caused from a medical condition it will be there all the time or at least most of the time,not related to the bowel movement.
On the other hand ,all your tests and investigations are normal (thyroid profile ,complete blood count ,colonoscopy ,endoscopy,CT-scan ,EKG ) are normal so there is no medical condition that could explain this feeling.

A possible explanation is that since you are taking fiber and laxative your intestines may distend to quickly activating vagal reflex that can cause a drop in your blood pressure and this can explain tiredness before defecation.After defecation your intestines return to their normal volume, the vagal reflex is interrupted and the blood pressure returns to its normal values.
You don't need to worry about this.
I suggest to eat healthy foods,rich in fibers, eat small frequent meals.Drink plenty of water and exercise regularly.

Hope it helps.
Let me know if you have any other question or doubts to clarify.I will be happy to assist you further.

Kind regards,
Dr.Rovena Murati

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rovena (30 minutes later)

Thanks! Also I lost a few pounds during the lack of appetite phase. (Around 7 or 8) it's taken me a good 3 or so weeks of normal eating and I'm still a few pounds shy, is that "normal?"

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (21 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Don't need to worry.

Detailed Answer:
Hello again!

Considering your symptoms (constipation ,loss of appetite ) and the treatment your doctor has prescribed you (laxative ,probiotic,fibre) it might be Irritable bowel syndrome.
Loss of appetite can cause significant weight loss.You may need some more time to recuperate your previous weight.
If you are feeling better,your appetite is improved and your weight is stable (you are not losing weight) you don't need to worry.
Eat frequent meals,healthy foods and drink plenty of water.Exercise regularly (this will increase your appetite further ).

Hope it answers your query.
Take care,

Dr.Rovena

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rovena (4 minutes later)

Thank you so much!

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You are welcome.

Detailed Answer:
Hi there,

You are totally welcome.

I wish you all the best.
Take care,

Dr.Rovena

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar