Extreme dizziness after using the bathroom....
Ok guys, this is really embarrasing to bring up, but has anyone else had problems being dizzy after using the bathroom, and I don't mean peeing... I've noticed lately that if I have to strain at all (which sometimes happens) when I stand up I get a huge wave of dizziness. I almost passed out in the bathroom a few minutes ago. I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this or might know why. I wonder if it has anything to do with my blood pressure...like maybe the straining raises it then when I stand up it gets worse... It's got me worried and I'm just looking for some input.
It doesn't seem to happen when I stand up from a chair or get out of bed. Thanks guys! Sorry I haven't been on much....they laid down the law here at work on us about being online during the day. I'll try to catch up with everyone on here this weekend at home!
Kelle
Are you on medication for high blood pressure? Are you monitoring it and reporting to your PCP? It may be time to either lower the dose or come off completely.
Are you using any kind of stool softener to avoid straining? Sometimes the straining itself can cause problems with your blood pressure. Have you tried a stool softener or added fiber? I know Dr. A loves MOM (Milk of Magnesia), but I started with the Benefiber chewables and it seems to be better for me.
Hope you are better soon.
Patti
Kelle
The dizziness is most likely from low blood pressure. When you increase your intra abdominal pressure (like when straining in the bathroom, vomiting or other fun things) you put pressure on the vagus nerve. When the pressure stimulates the nerve the heart rate and blood pressure drop. Then when you stand up the blood pressure may actually drop a little more. Because of the drop in blood pressure you do not get enough blood to the brain so dizziness occurs. This reflex is what causes some people to pass out while straining to urinate or deficate.
To keep the symptoms from being so pronounced - sit for a few minutes before you get up then stand up slowly. The symptoms will be more pronounced if you have not kept up with your fluids and are a little dehydrated.
Hope this helps
Denise