Does Laughing hard make you weak?

[Jenna73]

I used to laugh heartily, you know, laugh hard, sometimes at length, and your stomach muscle hurts, etc, like everyone I know. In the recent years, every now and then, something would really *strike* me funny, and I'd laugh hard... but then while laughing really hard, I lose all my strength, and I practically collapse! Sounds funny and typical, bu no! I can't for the life of me stand on my own two feet. When I'm laughing and it really gets going, I almost seem to convulse a bit, because I'm losing control, and I need to hold onto something before I fall! I mean, I'm not concerned that it's a disease or anything, but I'm just curious as to why this happens... am I the only one? I was thinking because I'm laughing so hard, my diaphragm is getting a good sudden workout, and the wind is being knocked out of me??

[AnnD]

When was the last time you did a treadmill test or had a complete physical? I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss the symptoms...who do you know reacts that way from a good laugh?...I don't know anyone so perhaps there is something more going on? good luck.

[Jenna73]

Hi, it does sound strange, right? I do get regular blood work or physical with my dr. every 3 to 6 months. All my 'numbers' are good, blood pressure, blood count, etc. I'm healthy, i've been told. The best way to describe this laughing thing would be like... have you ever heard Asians talking about Chi? I feel like when I'm laughing really hard, and start breaking down like a crumbling tower, all of my chi has left! I don't quite know the true meaning of chi, but this is the way I can describe it. Thanks for posting!

[midwest1]

Look into a condition called "laughter-induced syncope" (pronounced SINK-uh-pee). "Syncope" means "fainting". From what I understand, it has to do with sudden change in blood pressure and oxygen supply to the brain. Ask your MD about it; it's a medically recognized condition that is relatively benign... unless you're falling down and breaking bones all the time, that is.

[Jenna73]

Thank you for posting, Midwest1 ! When I do laugh hard and 'break down' vertically, it's just the oddest thing. It's more frequent now. Practically every time i laugh hard from the heart! But i don't feel lightheaded or feel like i'm going to faint at all. My knees just give out. When i just laugh, a light laugh or a passing quick laugh, I don't fall or anything. Just when I REALLY think something's funny... and it just strikes me funny, and my knees give out! What can I say?!