Common toilet habit could risk death every time you go, warns expert – are you guilty of doing it?
EVERYBODY poops - it's a natural part of most people's everyday.
But your toilet trip could take an unexpected turn if you find yourself performing the Valsalva manoeuvre, an expert warns.
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The Valsalva manoeuvre involves taking a deep breath, closing the mouth and nose, and forcefully exhaling as if trying to bear down, increasing pressure in the chest.
And it's commonly seen during defecation.
Michelle Spear, professor of anatomy at University of Bristol, says: "For most people, it's harmless. But for those with heart problems, this strain can lead to 'defecation syncope' (fainting), irregular heart rhythms and even sudden death."
Writing for The Conversation, Spear explains it all has to do with the vagus nerve - the system that helps control your heart rate.
When it becomes overstimulated, through intense straining or pressure in the rectum, it can cause bradycardia (a dangerously slow heartbeat), low blood pressure and loss of consciousness.
She adds: "This makes defecation a surprisingly high-stakes event for those with underlying heart conditions."
Elvis Presley is one of the most well-known celebrities to have died while straining on the toilet.
He was found on the bathroom floor of Graceland on August 16, 1977, and while fans speculated about a drug overdose, a post-mortem revealed he'd suffered chronic constipation exacerbated by a high-fat, low-fibre diet, and prolonged opiate use.
On the morning of his death, he was reportedly straining forcefully, and "the Valsalva manoeuvre may have triggered a fatal arrhythmia in a heart already compromised by years of prescription drug abuse and poor health", says Spear.
Straining isn't the only health danger toilets present.
You're going to the bathroom wrong - fix constipation without a Squatty Potty
Spear also warns sitting too long on the loo could raise the risk of haemorrhoids and anal fissures.
She says: "Modern habits add new risks. Bringing your smartphone to the toilet often means longer sitting times.
"This increases pressure on the rectal venous plexus (the network of veins around the rectum), raising the risk of haemorrhoids and anal fissures."
Scrolling on your phone in the bog may also pose microbial dangers.
Phones can become a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses if not regularly cleaned.
A study found some phones were contaminated with faecal matter and that smartphones can harbour more germs than toilet seats.
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And toilet posture can also cause issues.
Spear warns: "The western-style sitting toilet, unlike the squatting toilets common in parts of Asia and Africa, places the rectum at an angle that makes defecation more effortful and hence more likely to provoke straining.
"This is why some people use footstools or 'toilet squat platforms' to adjust their position and reduce the risk of complications."
So just remember, next time nature calls, avoid straining, think twice about settling down with your phone, and make sure you're sitting in the right position.
These tips below could also make your bowel movements run more smoothly...
What you can do to help your bowel movements
TO improve your bowel movements, focus on a high-fibre diet, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and develop a consistent bowel routine.
Increase fibre intake
Aim for at least 18 grams of fibre per day. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts in your diet.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water (1.5-2 litres per day) to help soften stools.
Regular exercise
Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or jogging, to stimulate bowel movement.
Develop a consistent routine
Go to the bathroom when you feel the urge, and try to go at the same time each day, if possible.
Consider probiotics
Some people find that taking probiotic supplements or consuming probiotic-rich foods (like yogurt) can help regulate bowel movements.
Consult a doctor
If you have persistent constipation or other digestive issues, consult with a doctor to rule out underlying conditions and discuss appropriate treatment options.
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