by Scott Olsen
Everyone has had that moment: you’re on the toilet, the pushes have stalled, and you decide to summon every ounce of strength in your body for one last try.
NEVER STRAIN
Straining during a bowel movement sharply increases pressure in the abdomen and rectum. Repeatedly doing so can aggravate or contribute to hemorrhoids—swollen veins around the anus that may itch, hurt, or bleed. It can also worsen anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the anus. Neither condition makes for pleasant conversation, but both can make sitting, walking, and future bathroom trips very uncomfortable.
There is another reason not to force the issue: excessive straining can briefly affect blood pressure and heart rhythm. Some people may feel lightheaded, sweaty, nauseated, or even faint due to a reflex called the vasovagal response. If you have heart disease, blood-pressure concerns, or repeatedly feel faint on the toilet, talk with a clinician. Heart attacks on the toilet from straining so hard are referred to the “commode code” by fireman and emergency crews: the way Elvis died on the toilet straining to go. He had months of constipation at one time. His autopsy report showed his colon was stretched to double the width and 2 times as long as normal.
AVOID ALL the Horror with
PoopDoc’s Formula #1
The better strategy is less “push harder” and more “make the exit easier.” Drink enough fluids, eat fiber-rich foods such as fresh vegetables, fruit and stay physically active. Give yourself unhurried bathroom time, but do not sit scrolling for ages—long toilet sessions can also increase pressure on hemorrhoidal veins.
Using Formula #1 can produce the ULTIMATE Experience: a Productive, Easy to deliver, in and out of the Bathroom in minutes. Don’t be surprised if you catch yourself skipping to the mailbox instead of walking.
