What It Means To Feel Dizzy And Faint While Passing Stool

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Have you ever felt faint or dizzy while passing stool or trying to have a bowel movement? Did you simultaneously get extremely hot and sweaty? If that’s the case, know that it could be due to a condition called defecation syncope, which translates to the temporary loss of consciousness during a bowel movement. While rare, it can occur in middle-aged or older individuals and affect women more often than men, as per research. But what is it exactly, and why does it occur? In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Prasad Bhate, Consultant Gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune, shares insights.

Also Read: Low Blood Sugar Can Cause Temporary Loss Of Consciousness: Immediate Steps To Take

Understanding Defecation Syncope

Defecation syncope refers to fainting or feeling lightheaded during or right after a bowel movement, says Dr Bhate.

According to him, it occurs when there's a temporary drop in blood flow to the brain due to straining during defecation.

He says, “Straining increases pressure within the chest and abdomen, disrupting normal blood flow and potentially lowering blood pressure. This sudden drop can lead to dizziness or fainting.”

This is also called a vasovagal response.

What Is Vasovagal Reflex?

The vasovagal reflex is a common cause of fainting and dizziness, triggered by an overreaction to certain stimuli. This can be triggered by straining during a bowel movement, seeing blood, or experiencing extreme emotional distress, according to Dr Bhate.

The vagus nerve is the largest nerve in the body and carries signals from the brain stem to various organs, including the heart, lungs, stomach, and intestines.

It is, therefore, responsible for regulating heart rate and blood pressure. But when it gets overstimulated, it leads to a sudden decrease in heart rate and widening of blood vessels; the combined effect reduces blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness, weakness, and sometimes fainting, the doctor explains.

Also Read: Syncope Can Be A Major Reason Behind Fainting And Sudden Dizziness. Know How It Can Be Tackled

Other Symptoms To Not Ignore

Here are some other symptoms that can indicate a vasovagal response, including:

• Nausea or feeling like you might vomit
• Warmth or flushing of the skin
• Paleness (skin turning pale)
• Sweating 
• Tunnel vision (narrowing of the patient's field of vision)
• Blurred vision
• Ringing in the ears
• Feeling weak or faint
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Headache
• Sudden urge to urinate
• Jerky, abnormal movements 
• Slow, weak pulse
• Dilated pupils

On Managing The Condition

Managing defecation syncope focuses on minimising strain during bowel movements, says Dr Bhate.

This includes eating a high-fibre diet, practising proper hydration, and considering using a footstool for better alignment.

“If fainting occurs frequently or with concerning symptoms like chest pain or dizziness, consult a doctor to rule out underlying conditions, the doctor recommends, adding that this is especially important for individuals with heart problems or low blood pressure.