Phenomenon Kebelet Defecation During Travel, Normal Or Not?

Illustration of a starting stomach. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Almost everyone has had a sudden stomach or wants to defecate unbearablely after leaving the house or traveling. But why is the push for defecation emerging when we leave the house? It turns out that this phenomenon has a scientific explanation.

According to Erin Hendriks, MD, a doctor at Salvo Health, this is related to the condition of the intestines, nervous system, and habits.

"Usually, the cause is stress," he said, quoted from The Skimm page.

Our intestinal lining has millions of nerve cells that form a entertainment nervous system. When feeling anxious or tense, the body releases hormones and neurotransmitters that trigger intestinal contraction which then gives rise to a feeling of defecation.

The pelvic health coach, Julia Connolly, PT, DPT added that this can become a habit that is formed over time. When a person rushes, thinks about work, or feels pressured, the fight-or-flight nervous system is active and stimulates intestinal activity, so that digestion work faster and there is a sensation of wanting to defecate.

Daily habits also have a role. Lagging at the same time every day is a learned behavior.

"It's like when a child is trained to use a toilet. Our brains are used to associating certain times or situations with the urge to urinate," Connolly said.

That's why some people feel likeQUId when they approach the house or put the key into the door, even though it didn't feel anything before.

In addition, if your morning routine includes drinking coffee, this urge can be even stronger. Coffee is known to stimulate gastrocolic reflexs that signal the body that it's time to defecate.

If you can't leave the habit of coffee, at least identify the location of the nearest toilet, who knows if you need it.

The push to defecate when leaving the house does not automatically mean you have an IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). However, anxiety and the nervous system are closely related to IBS conditions.

"The business and brain are closely related through the nervous system. What happens to the mind will affect the intestine, and vice versa," explained Connolly.

In IBS sufferers, anxiety about work, social situations, or fear of leaving the house can worsen symptoms, including a sudden urge to go to the toilet.

Experts recommend relaxation techniques to help relieve stress that triggers the urge. But if you really have to defecate, just do it. You don't need to be ashamed. Here are some steps you can try.

1. Breathe deep and slowly

Respiratory exercise helps calm the nervous system and reduce stress. Techniques such as breathing diaphragm, box breathing, or 4-7-8 can have a calming effect through the activation of the vagus nerve.

2. Don't panic immediately and run to the toilet

Connoryly said it is important to train the brain in managing encouragement. This means that if possible, try to hold back for a while (without excessive). This habit can help train the rhythm of urination to make it more regular. You can also consult with pelvic health physiotherapists for further guidance.

3. Consult with health workers

If this urge suddenly appears or starts to interfere with activities, it's best to check with a doctor. There could be certain health conditions that trigger a change in the defecation pattern.

Whatever the situation, remember that this condition is normal and experienced by many people.

"IBS is common. Peeing is normal, even those that are urgent. You are not alone," said Dr. Hendriks.

So if you need to stop for a while to go to the toilet, it doesn't matter.

"We are all human and all human beings defecating." he added.