Abstract
In an attempt to determine the least taxing method of defecation on the cardiovascular systems, comparison of the effects of two methods defecation using the toilet and bedpan in supine on the urinary catecholamine excretion was made with 10 normal volunteers.
Urinary catecholamines were measured by spectrofluorometric assay using trihydroxyindole method.
Results obtained were as follows.
1) The mean levels of urinary catecholamines after using the toilet were significantly higher than those after using the bedpan.
2) The increment rate of urinary adrenaline from resting level was higher than those of urinary noradrenaline in both methods.
3) These results suggest that patients with myocardial infraction in acute stages should not use the toilet for defecation.
