By Using your phone on the toilet may seem harmless, but it could be putting you at risk for a painful and uncomfortable condition—hemorrhoids. Experts warn that prolonged sitting on the toilet, especially while scrolling through your phone, increases pressure on the rectal veins, leading to swelling, irritation, and even bleeding. When you sit on the toilet for an extended period, gravity and the relaxed position of your pelvic muscles cause increased blood flow to the rectal area. This excessive pressure can weaken the blood vessels, making them prone to swelling and inflammation.
Using your phone distracts you, leading to longer toilet sessions, which significantly raises the risk of developing hemorrhoids. Aside from hemorrhoids, using your phone in the bathroom exposes you to harmful bacteria. Studies have found that smartphones can harbor fecal bacteria, including E. coli, which can cause infections if transferred to your face, mouth, or other surfaces. Without proper hand and phone hygiene, you could be unknowingly inviting harmful germs into your daily life. To protect yourself from hemorrhoids and bacterial infections, limit your time on the toilet to five minutes or less.
Avoid bringing your phone to the bathroom, as it encourages unnecessary delays. Maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity also help prevent constipation, reducing the need for prolonged straining during bowel movements. While scrolling through social media or catching up on messages in the bathroom might feel convenient, it’s a habit that could lead to painful consequences. Being mindful of your toilet habits can save you from discomfort and potential health risks in the long run.
