Cardiac Arrests are too common these days, especially for younger people around 35 to 45 years old. Who is stressed out from busy lives? Even though people care more about their hearts now, many don’t know the warning signs that their hearts might be in trouble.
A National Library of Medicine study has shown that the bathroom, for all its porcelain comfort, can be a surprisingly risky spot for your heart health. That’s right; cardiac arrest is more likely to happen in the bathroom than in other places around the house. So, buckle up and get ready to learn why your bathroom might harbour a hidden heart hazard and how to keep yourself safe while there!
A National Library of Medicine study investigated cardiac arrest (CA) in the toilet and its resuscitation profile. Here are their findings:
- 11% of the studied cardiac arrests happened in the bathroom, a higher proportion than in other places at home.
- Witnessing the collapse and achieving return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) were less frequent for toilet-related cardiac arrests compared to those in the bathtub.
- Delayed discovery due to the privacy of the toilet setting is a significant factor in worse outcomes for toilet-related cardiac arrests.
- People with a history of heart disease are more likely to experience cardiac arrest in the toilet.
- Straining during defecation or urination, along with pre-existing health conditions and certain medications, are suspected causes.
- Early detection and intervention are crucial for improving survival rates.
- Imaging studies revealed that 23% of patients who experienced cardiac arrest in the toilet had an extra-cardiac lesion, such as a subarachnoid hemorrhage or aortic dissection.
- The study suggests that cardiac arrest in the bathroom can be caused by a combination of factors, including increased blood pressure from straining, decreased blood pressure from defecation syncope, and underlying heart problems.
Why Cardiac Arrest Happens in the Bathroom?
Straining on the Toilet
Straining during a bowel movement can stress your heart, especially if you have underlying heart problems. It can also trigger a vasovagal response, which slows your heart rate and blood pressure and sometimes leads to fainting.
Water Temperatures
Scalding baths or cold showers can cause sudden changes in heart rate and blood pressure. This rapid shift can be risky for people with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Opt for lukewarm water for a safer and more relaxing experience.
Medications
Be mindful of medications and any recreational drugs stored in the bathroom. Accidental overdoses can lead to serious health problems, including cardiac arrest. Consider storing these in a secure location outside the bathroom.
What is cardiac arrest?
Cardiac arrest is a sudden emergency where the heart malfunctions and stops pumping blood effectively—disrupting blood flow to your organs, including the brain. Cardiac arrest can lead to death within minutes if not treated promptly.
Here are some warning signs of cardiac arrest
- Sudden loss of consciousness (fainting)
- No pulse or breathing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Rapid or irregular heartbeats (palpitations)
- Unexplained sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Weakness or feeling faint
Risk Factors for Cardiac Arrest
- Age: People over 65 are at higher risk.
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): This is the most common cause of cardiac arrest. It is a condition in which the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup.
- Arrhythmias: These are abnormal heart rhythms. Some arrhythmias can cause the heart to beat too slowly, fast, or irregularly. Disrupt the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
- Heart failure is when the heart is weakened and cannot pump blood effectively. Fluid buildup in the lungs and other body parts can further strain the heart.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Electrolytes are minerals in the blood that help regulate heart rhythm. An imbalance of electrolytes, such as potassium or magnesium, can increase the risk of cardiac arrest.
- Family history of cardiac arrest: Having a close family member who has had cardiac arrest increases your risk.
- Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes, can increase your risk of cardiac arrest.
- Drug use: Illegal drug use, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can increase the risk of cardiac arrest.
- Sudden emotional stress: Severe emotional stress can trigger a heart attack or cardiac arrest.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Cardiac Arrest in the Bathroom
The bathroom can sometimes be a place where factors converge to increase the risk of heart attack. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of cardiac arrest in the bathroom:
- Relaxation Techniques: Avoid straining during bowel movements. Take your time and use relaxation techniques like deep breathing if needed.
- Dietary Fiber: Increase your dietary fibre intake to promote regularity and softer stools, reducing the need to strain.
- Manage Water Temperatures: Take lukewarm showers instead of hot or cold water. It helps avoid sudden changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
- Secure Storage: Store medications and any recreational drugs outside the bathroom in a safe location. Accidental overdoses can be life-threatening.
- Clear Labels: Ensure medications are clearly labelled and not expired.
- Emergency Plan: If you live alone, consider having a system for someone to check on you if you’re in the bathroom for an extended period.
- Reach Accessible: Keep your phone or a medical alert device within reach in case you need to call for help.
Bathroom Safety Habits
- Don’t take scalding baths significantly above chest level.
- Set a timer when bathing to avoid spending too long in hot water.
- Avoid hot baths after taking sleeping pills or medications that relax you.
- Keep your phone within reach in case you need to call for help.
General Heart Health Tips
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a balanced diet low in cholesterol.
- Exercise regularly
- Manage stress levels.
- Get enough sleep.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
What to Do if You Experience Symptoms in the Bathroom
The bathroom is a private space, but it’s important to remember you’re not entirely alone in case of emergencies. Here’s what to do if you experience concerning symptoms in the bathroom:
Chest Pain, Dizziness, or Difficulty Breathing
- Call 911 Immediately: These symptoms can be signs of a heart attack or other severe medical conditions. Don’t hesitate to call for help.
- Sit Down and Relax: If possible, carefully sit on the floor or toilet and stay calm. Take slow, deep breaths.
- Alert Others: If you live with someone, yell for help or try to reach them by phone.
For Difficulty Using the Bathroom (Straining or Fainting)
- Stop Straining: If you’re having difficulty passing stool, stop straining and relax. Straining can worsen the problem and put extra stress on your heart.
- Relaxation Techniques: Try deep breathing exercises or applying a warm compress to your abdomen to relax the muscles.
- Increase Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to help soften stool and promote regularity.
- Seek Medical Attention (if persistent): If the difficulty persists, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.
For Allergic Reactions or Medication Mishaps,
- Identify the Cause: If you know the cause of the allergic reaction (e.g., medication), stop taking it immediately.
- Antihistamines (if safe): If you have an allergy medication, such as an antihistamine, readily available and know it’s safe to take, follow the instructions.
- Call 911 for Severe Reactions: For severe allergic reactions with trouble breathing or swelling, call 911 immediately.
Last Words
While the bathroom is a private space, certain factors can combine to increase the risk of cardiac arrest. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize this risk. You can promote a safe and healthy bathroom environment by managing bathroom habits like showering with lukewarm water, keeping medications secure, and maintaining good overall heart health through diet and exercise. If you experience concerning symptoms in the bathroom, remember to call 911 immediately and take steps to stay calm and get help.
Also read – Is Your Favorite Samosa Putting You at Risk?
