Straining

The forcible, often prolonged exertion of skeletal or smooth muscle against resistance, producing increased intrathoracic and intra-abdominal pressure.

Causes

• Defecation-related causes

  • Constipation

  • Tenesmus

  • Dyschezia

  • Mechanical bowel obstruction

  • Parkinson's disease

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Pelvic floor dysfunction

• Micturition-related causes

  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

  • Urethral stricture

  • Weak detrusor muscle

  • Bladder stones

• Parturition (prolonged labor)

• Heavy lifting