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Constipation Can Lead to Dizziness Through Vagal Events
While not a common culprit, constipation can sometimes trigger dizziness.
- Constipation isn’t a primary cause of dizziness.
- straining during bowel movements can lead to a vagal event.
- Vasovagal syncope involves overstimulation of the vagus nerve.
- Orthostatic hypotension can also contribute to dizziness.
Can constipation make you dizzy? Yes, in certain circumstances, it’s possible.
While Michael D. Brown, MD, a gastroenterologist and professor of medicine at Rush University Medical center in Chicago, confirms that constipation isn’t a frequent trigger for dizziness, he notes that it can contribute. This frequently enough happens due to straining or passing a notably large bowel movement, or in the context of a gastrointestinal bleed.These actions can provoke what Dr. Brown terms a “vagal event.”
A vagal event is linked to vasovagal syncope. This occurs when your vagus nerve becomes overstimulated. The result is a potential drop in your pulse rate. Without sufficient blood flow to the brain, you can experience dizziness or even faint. Factors like extreme heat, dehydration, skipping meals, and prolonged exercise can also trigger vasovagal syncope. Sometimes, even the act of having a bowel movement can be a trigger.
Another condition that can cause fainting is orthostatic hypotension. This happens when your blood pressure drops suddenly as you change positions quickly, such as standing up from a lying down position. If you’re constipated, you might spend more time than usual on the toilet. sitting for an extended period
