If your eyes water when you poop, you’re not alone. This is actually a common experience for many people. Let’s take a closer look at why this happens and what it means for your body.

It’s All Because of the Vagus Nerve

The main reason behind watery eyes during pooping is something called the vagus nerve. This nerve runs from your brain all the way down to your belly, and it controls many important functions like your heart rate, digestion, and reflexes.

When you poop, especially if you have to push really hard, the vagus nerve gets triggered. This can cause different reactions in your body. Your blood pressure might drop a little, and you might feel dizzy. And yes, it can even make your eyes water. The pressure you use when pushing affects this nerve, which then sends signals to your tear ducts and causes your eyes to tear up.

How Pressure Affects Your Tear Ducts

Another reason your eyes water when you poop has to do with pressure changes in your body. When you push, you increase the pressure inside your chest and belly, which can affect other parts of your body, like your lacrimal glands. These glands produce tears.

Your tear ducts are sensitive to these pressure changes, so when you push hard, they may release some tears. It’s similar to when you sneeze really hard or even throw up—both of these actions can also make your eyes water because of the sudden pressure.

Emotional Relief Can Play a Role Too

Believe it or not, emotions can also be part of why your eyes water. The vagus nerve is connected to the part of your brain that deals with emotions. Sometimes, pooping can be a bit intense, especially if you’ve been constipated or if it takes a lot of effort. The emotional relief of finally going can make your body react by making your eyes water.

The “Poo-phoria” Effect Explained

Another interesting thing about pooping is something called “poo-phoria.” This is when you feel really good after a big bowel movement because your body releases chemicals that make you feel happy. When you finally go after being constipated, your body releases endorphins, which are chemicals that boost your mood. This mix of physical and emotional feelings can sometimes make your eyes water too.

When to Be Concerned

Most of the time, having your eyes water when you poop is totally normal and nothing to worry about. However, if you notice other symptoms, like severe pain, dizziness, or if you have to push a lot, it could mean something is wrong, such as constipation or another underlying issue. If that’s the case, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor to make sure everything is okay.

Tips to Avoid Straining During Bowel Movements

Straining when you poop can be hard on your body and lead to discomfort or other problems. If you often have to push hard, here are some tips to make it easier:

Eat more fiber: Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help make your stool softer and easier to pass.
Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated helps everything move smoothly through your digestive system.
Change your posture: Putting a small stool under your feet while sitting on the toilet can help straighten your colon, making it easier to go without straining.
Go when you feel the urge: Don’t hold it in. Waiting can make your stool harder and more difficult to pass later.

The Bottom Line

If your eyes water when you poop, don’t worry—it’s usually just your body reacting to extra pressure on your vagus nerve or tear ducts. It’s one of those quirky things your body does that’s more common than you might think. However, if it keeps happening along with other symptoms, you should talk to your doctor.

Your body has many strange and interconnected ways of functioning, and sometimes tearing up during a bathroom break is just part of how everything works.