Health
Toilet Phone Use Tied to Higher Hemorrhoid Risk
Health Points
- Using a phone on the toilet is linked to a 46% higher risk of developing hemorrhoids.
- Sitting too long while scrolling can compress veins, leading to swelling and discomfort.
- Experts recommend keeping bathroom visits brief and leaving devices outside.
Recent research suggests that bringing your phone to the bathroom may raise your chances of developing hemorrhoids. The study found people who used smartphones while on the toilet were significantly more likely to have hemorrhoids based on colonoscopy results.
“The issue isn’t only smartphones, but the extra time spent sitting on the toilet,” said Brian C. Jacobson, MD, MPH.
Although hemorrhoids are common and part of normal anatomy, problems begin when these veins swell, leading to pain and, sometimes, bleeding.
“Over the last several years, our thinking about hemorrhoids has really evolved,” said Trisha Pasricha, MD, MPH, the study’s senior author.
Most participants who spent more time on the toilet were also younger and tended to be less active, according to the researchers.
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice blood during bowel movements, as it could indicate hemorrhoids or other conditions needing medical attention.
To help prevent hemorrhoids, drink enough water, eat plenty of fiber, and limit your toilet time. Leaving phones, books, and magazines outside the bathroom can also make a difference.
Small changes to your daily routine can help support long-term digestive health. To stay informed on wellness strategies for your 40s and beyond, keep up with Fit with Age.
