Straining during defecation: risks, causes, and treatments

Everyone’s toilet habits are a little different. What a person eats, age, activity level, and other factors can affect the frequency of bowel movements.

Several people have Some people defecate 1 to 3 times a day, while others 2 to 3 times a week.

If you strain to defecate, you may be at risk for several complications.

hemorrhoids

strain when pooping Increased risk Development of hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels within the anus or rectum. It can cause itching, pain, and sometimes bleeding. The increased pressure from straining can cause blood vessels in the rectum to swell and become inflamed.

Learn more about hemorrhoids.

anal fissure

can also be stressful lead to Anal fissure, a small fissure in the inner wall of the anus. It can cause pain and bleeding when defecating.

Fissures occur because they stretch when you strain due to constipation.

Click here to learn more about anal fissures.

hiatal hernia

Although less common than other constipation complications, can develop Hiatal hernia caused by straining.

When you strain during a bowel movement, the pressure inside your abdomen increases significantly. This increased pressure can cause part of the stomach to bulge through the diaphragm muscle and into the chest cavity.

A hiatal hernia can cause abdominal discomfort and acid reflux.

Vasovagal syncope

Head down while pooping can be induced A sudden drop in blood pressure that can lead to fainting. This is a condition doctors call vasovagal syndrome.

A person may experience the following:

rectal prolapse

in rare case If you strain, you may develop rectal prolapse, where part of your rectum protrudes from your anus.

Partial rectal prolapse is when the lining of the rectum falls out through the anus, and complete rectal prolapse is when the entire rectum prolapses.

When rectal prolapse occurs, a reddish lump protrudes from the anus. You may also experience mucus and blood coming out of your anus, and you may have trouble controlling your bowel movements.

People who strain to defecate are experiencing constipation, or in severe cases, fecal impaction.

constipation

Constipation is Major cause To strain while pooping. This occurs when stool becomes too hard and difficult to pass.

Constipation can happen to anyone at any age. Possible causes of this condition include:

medical condition

specific medical condition may cause It can disrupt your digestive system and cause constipation and straining.

These may include:

medicine

Some medicines and dietary supplements may cause or worsen It can cause constipation and tension. These drugs may include:

• narcotic pain reliever
• calcium channel blocker
• diuretic
• iron supplements
• antacids
• Parkinson’s disease medicine
• some seizure medications
• some medicines for depression

If you are straining while defecating, it may help to stop and try again later.Stool softeners, suppositories, or enemas may help soften Prepares stool and prevents straining.

If you often strain during defecation, it is important to take steps to prevent the development of complications.

Lifestyle changes

some lifestyle changes Might be helpful Some people have the following stools that pass easily and do not require straining:

• liquid: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your stools soft.
• diet: Eating a diet rich in fiber, such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, is beneficial.
• exercise: Regular physical activity promotes healthy bowel function.

medicine

Some medicines available over the counter or by prescription Might be helpful It makes defecation easier. These include:

• stool softener
• osmotic agent
• lubricant
• stimulant or laxative

It is important to use laxatives only for short periods of time. Doctors also recommend its use only if constipation is severe or other treatments have not worked.

Click here to learn more about laxatives.

to helps prevent When straining, it’s best to listen to your body when it needs to have a bowel movement. It is important to make time to use the toilet as soon as possible, rather than waiting.

You can also try gut training. This includes making time to defecate at the same time every day.

Consuming enough fluids, fiber, and exercise can also help reduce tension.

If you find it difficult to manage constipation with your lifestyle, or if your symptoms are severe, you may want to see a doctor.

If you think your medication is causing your constipation or straining, talk to your doctor about other options.

Straining during bowel movements may occur occasionally, but regular straining can injure the rectum. Excessive straining can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other complications.

To avoid tension, you can try to stay hydrated, eat a diet high in fiber, and stay active. Over-the-counter and prescription medications may also be helpful.

If you regularly feel strained or experience severe constipation, it’s important to talk to your doctor.