Most of us have experienced the odd phenomenon where our nose starts running uncontrollably while we’re sitting on the toilet. It’s an awkward and somewhat uncomfortable situation, but what causes it? Here’s the explanation.
When we poop, our body experiences a change in pressure in the abdomen. This pressure change can stimulate the Vagus nerve. The Vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the body and controls many different functions, including heart rate, digestion, and sweating. It also controls glandular secretion in the nasal mucosa or lining inside the nasal cavity.
When the Vagus nerve is stimulated, it can cause vasodilation or widening of the blood vessels in the nasal cavity, increasing blood flow to the area. This increased blood flow causes the mucous glands in the lining of the nose to produce more mucus, resulting in a runny nose.
Apart from the physiological explanation, there are also other factors that can contribute to a runny nose when pooping. For example, while pooping, we may be exposed to odors that can irritate our nasal passages, leading to a runny nose.
Additionally, when we strain to push out fecal matter, we increase intrathoracic pressure, which can cause congestion in the nasal passages and increase mucus secretion.
In most cases, a runny nose while pooping is not a cause for concern. However, if you experience other symptoms, such as fever, cough, or chest pain, it’s best to see a doctor to rule out any underlying health issues.
Yes, it’s normal to have a runny nose while pooping. This is due to the stimulation of the Vagus nerve, which can increase blood flow and mucus secretion in the nasal cavity.
There’s no guaranteed way to completely avoid a runny nose while pooping, but you can try using tissues, wiping your nose frequently, or blowing your nose to keep it under control. You can also try breathing through your mouth while pooping to avoid nose irritation.
If your runny nose while pooping is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, cough, or chest pain, it’s best to see a doctor to rule out any underlying health issues.
