Vomiting Bowel Movement

By Dr. Ritu Krishnatreye, BHMS

Vomiting bowel movement

Vomiting is a reflex action in which there is a backward movement of the contents from the bowel or stomach. Vomiting during a bowel movement is not a very common problem.

Many times it is associated with an underlying condition that should be diagnosed by a physician.

Vomiting during a bowel movement may be associated with nausea and heartburn. Let’s have a look at the various causes of vomiting during bowel movements. 

5 Causes of Vomiting During a Bowel Movement

1. Lax oesophageal sphincter

Normally, when food passes from the esophagus to the stomach, the lower esophageal sphincter closes so as to prevent stomach acids to pass back up in the esophagus.

In case of an incompetent esophageal sphincter, it relaxes and allows gastric contents to come back into the esophagus and throat.

As one passes stools, the intra-abdominal pressure may increase, resulting in a relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. When the sphincter relaxes, vomiting may occur.

Intra-abdominal pressure can be increased by excessive straining caused by constipation. Therefore, to prevent sudden opening of the sphincter, it is best to deal with constipation. 

Eat plenty of fiber rich foods and drink enough water to stay hydrated.

If constipation is a problem, taking a daily magnesium supplement can be quite helpful.

Magnesium increases the moisture content of fecal matter, which can result in stools that are soft, moist and do not require straining to pass. 

2. Partial intestinal blockage

A partial intestinal blockage caused by surgical scars, adhesions, tumor or strictures can increase intra-abdominal pressure while stools are passed.

This in turn may result in vomiting. Gastro-endoscopy may be done to remedy this condition.

3. Irritable bowel syndrome

At times, symptoms can be managed by making diet and lifestyle modifications. 

4. Ovulation

Ovulation may be responsible when women experience nausea and vomiting while passing stools.

Some of the chemicals associated with cramps during ovulation can also cause nausea or vomiting. It is a normal condition, but it may be helped by taking anti-vomiting medications.

5. Psychogenic causes

A hypersensitivity to smell or vision may cause some hypersensitive people to experience sudden vomiting during bowel movements. Unsightly conditions or an offensive smell in the bathroom may trigger this. 

If you are hypersensitive, going in a clean bathroom can help to avoid this reaction. 

During pregnancy, a woman’s sensitivity towards smell increases, which in turn may trigger vomiting while passing stools.

Conclusion, vomiting bowel movement

A vomiting bowel movement is certainly unpleasant, and most of the time may be avoided. Finding a way to deal with constipation is certainly a move in the right direction.

(Return from Vomiting Bowel Movement to Signs of Constipation)