Why Do I Get Goosebumps When Having a Bowel Movement?
Having goosebumps while defecating is generally considered a normal physiological phenomenon and does not require excessive concern. This is related to the sensitivity of local nerves. Middle-aged and elderly individuals who experience this phenomenon should also be mindful, especially if they have underlying diseases such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. When defecating, they should avoid exerting too much force and should not spend too much time on the toilet.
One possible reason for goosebumps during defecation is excessive sensitivity of local nerves. During defecation, the pelvic nerves are in a state of alternating contraction and relaxation of the sphincter muscles, so patients with sensitive nerves may experience neural reactions in the local skin.
1. Slow movements when squatting or standing up: When middle-aged and elderly individuals wake up in the morning to defecate, they should move slowly, squatting down and standing up gradually. As they often have arthritis, and the cartilage surface of their knee joints may be damaged, causing difficulty squatting, it is advisable to use a toilet seat. Additionally, grab bars can be installed around the toilet for easier sitting and standing.
2. Caution when exerting force during defecation: Individuals with constipation, especially elderly individuals with hypertension, should consider using laxatives before using the toilet and avoid exerting too much force during defecation. Furthermore, it is best to avoid holding urine for too long. Men, especially, should avoid standing to urinate for extended periods and should urinate slowly and without exerting force.
3. Outward-opening toilet doors: It is advisable to design toilet doors as outward-opening swing doors or sliding doors. Additionally, the locks on toilet doors should be designed to be operable from both sides, and a glass window can be installed on the door to allow family members to check on elderly individuals in case of danger.
4. Limited use of air fresheners: Many people like to spray air fresheners or perfumes in the toilet, but they may not be aware that the volatile organic compounds in air fresheners can be carcinogenic. Instead, it is better to use natural materials for odor control in the toilet, such as placing lemon slices, pineapple peels, or pomelo peels on the toilet tank or placing an open box of cooling oil in a slightly lower area of the bathroom.