Digestive health problems like constipation are often dismissed as minor inconveniences, but in some cases, they can have serious consequences. Straining during bowel movements may trigger fainting or even pose risks to the heart and brain, especially in older adults or those with underlying medical conditions.
This danger became real for 55-year-old man from Hyderabad, who collapsed in his bathroom one Sunday morning while trying to pass stool. His wife, alarmed by the sudden thud, found him unconscious and rushed him to the hospital.
Defecation Syncope: The Hidden Danger
Dr. Sudhir Kumar, senior neurologist trained at CMC Vellore and affiliated with Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, evaluated the patient and identified the condition as defecation syncope—a brief fainting episode triggered by straining during bowel movements. Dr. Kumar explained that intense straining can activate a reflex that slows the heart rate and lowers blood pressure, temporarily reducing blood flow to the brain. Most episodes are brief, but falls or rare cardiac complications can make it serious.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Defecation syncope is more common in middle-aged and older adults, people with chronic constipation, those with heart conditions, and patients taking medications that lower blood pressure. In the patient’s case, long-standing constipation combined with blood pressure medication increased his risk.
His son asked if the episode could have been fatal. Dr. Kumar clarified that while most patients regain consciousness quickly, a fall or prolonged heart pause can be dangerous. The patient underwent ECG, echocardiogram, and 24-hour Holter monitoring to rule out serious heart rhythm problems.
Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Advice
Prevention is key. Dr. Kumar advised maintaining a fiber-rich diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity. He also recommended avoiding prolonged straining, limiting distractions on the toilet, standing up slowly, and alerting family members if dizziness occurs.
At follow-up, Mr. Reddy acknowledged that he had underestimated the seriousness of constipation. He expressed relief that his family acted quickly and appreciated the guidance on preventing future risks.
This danger became real for 55-year-old man from Hyderabad, who collapsed in his bathroom one Sunday morning while trying to pass stool. His wife, alarmed by the sudden thud, found him unconscious and rushed him to the hospital.
Defecation Syncope: The Hidden Danger
Dr. Sudhir Kumar, senior neurologist trained at CMC Vellore and affiliated with Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, evaluated the patient and identified the condition as defecation syncope—a brief fainting episode triggered by straining during bowel movements. Dr. Kumar explained that intense straining can activate a reflex that slows the heart rate and lowers blood pressure, temporarily reducing blood flow to the brain. Most episodes are brief, but falls or rare cardiac complications can make it serious.
When Mr. Reddy Collapsed in the Bathroom
— Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) September 20, 2025
It was a quiet Sunday morning in Hyderabad when 55-year-old Mr. Reddy suddenly collapsed in his bathroom. His wife heard a thud, rushed in, and found him lying on the floor, unresponsive. “Reddy garu! Please open your eyes!” she cried in…
Who Is Most at Risk?
Defecation syncope is more common in middle-aged and older adults, people with chronic constipation, those with heart conditions, and patients taking medications that lower blood pressure. In the patient’s case, long-standing constipation combined with blood pressure medication increased his risk.
His son asked if the episode could have been fatal. Dr. Kumar clarified that while most patients regain consciousness quickly, a fall or prolonged heart pause can be dangerous. The patient underwent ECG, echocardiogram, and 24-hour Holter monitoring to rule out serious heart rhythm problems.
Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Advice
Prevention is key. Dr. Kumar advised maintaining a fiber-rich diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity. He also recommended avoiding prolonged straining, limiting distractions on the toilet, standing up slowly, and alerting family members if dizziness occurs.
At follow-up, Mr. Reddy acknowledged that he had underestimated the seriousness of constipation. He expressed relief that his family acted quickly and appreciated the guidance on preventing future risks.
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