Question: Dear doctor, I would like to ask: Why do I experience shortness of breath, cramps, chills, or even fainting when crying? Thank you!
Answer: Hello, the doctor would like to answer the question: "Why does crying cause shortness of breath, cramps, chills, or fainting?" as follows:
Some studies have shown that when crying, especially when crying for a long time or crying a lot, you may notice that the heart and lungs are not functioning normally. During crying, the heart and lungs contract, the breathing rhythm becomes longer, and is compressed for a considerable period. The lungs not functioning rhythmically cannot supply enough oxygen for the blood to return to the heart, and the heart also cannot provide enough oxygen to other parts of the body, especially the brain. The blood vessels in the brain are not circulating properly, leading to a lack of oxygen and resulting in headaches. This also explains why sometimes people cry uncontrollably, feel choked, can't breathe, or even faint while crying.
Your level of fatigue may depend on how much effort you put into crying — the more you cry, the more it reduces ventilation, which can decrease the oxygen supply to your brain, making you feel sleepier. Wishing you a joyful life, and more laughter.
If you have further questions or need advice, you can visit the hospitals in the Vinmec Health System for clarification.
Thank you for sending your question to Vinmec. Best regards!
-Answered by Vo Ha Bang Suong, MD - Treatment Doctor - Department of Outpatient & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Phu Quoc International General Hospital.
