Using Your Phone on the Toilet: The Hidden Risk of Hemorrhoids You Should Know About

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Smartphone Use in the Bathroom Linked to Higher Hemorrhoid Risk: Study Reveals Surprising Connection

Published Sept. 11,2025 at 7:02 p.m.

A recent study has unveiled a surprising link between time spent on smartphones while using the toilet and an increased risk of developing hemorrhoids. Researchers at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston found individuals who regularly use their phones in the bathroom are 46 percent more likely to suffer from this painful condition.

The Rising Prevalence of Hemorrhoids

hemorrhoids, characterized by swollen veins in the anal or rectal region, impact millions annually. Common causes include constipation, pregnancy, and age-related tissue weakening. However, emerging research suggests lifestyle factors, specifically those related to bathroom habits, play a significantly larger role than previously understood.

The Study: Unveiling the Bathroom Habit

The investigative team,led by Chethan Ramprasad,examined data from 125 adults undergoing routine colonoscopies. Participants completed detailed questionnaires regarding their lifestyle and bathroom behaviors. Simultaneously, researchers evaluated each volunteer for the presence of hemorrhoids.

The study revealed a striking trend: approximately two-thirds of participants admitted to using their smartphones while on the toilet-a figure notably higher among younger demographics. More alarmingly, 37 percent of smartphone users reported spending over five minutes in the bathroom, compared to just 7 percent of those who left their devices outside.

Why Does Time Spent Matter?

The research indicates that the prolonged sitting position, facilitated by smartphone distraction, is the primary culprit. Extended periods in a seated position increase pressure on the anal and rectal tissues,possibly hindering proper blood flow and contributing to the growth of hemorrhoids. The study clarified that the act of straining during bowel movements wasn’t the direct cause, but rather the duration of time spent seated.

Behavior	Percentage of Participants	Hemorrhoid Risk Increase
Smartphone Use in Bathroom	66%	46% Higher
Bathroom Time > 5 Minutes (Smartphone Users)	37%	N/A
Bathroom Time > 5 Minutes (Non-Smartphone Users)	7%	N/A

Did You Know? According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, approximately 75% of adults will experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Preventive measures,such as dietary changes and modified bathroom habits,can significantly reduce this risk.

“These findings underscore the importance of mindful bathroom habits,” stated researchers. “Leaving smartphones outside the bathroom and limiting time spent on the toilet can contribute to better rectal health.”

Researchers from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical center (Boston)

Pro Tip: Prioritize fiber intake and adequate hydration to maintain soft stools and reduce straining, a key preventative measure for hemorrhoids. Consider setting a timer to limit your bathroom visits to a reasonable duration.

preventing hemorrhoids: A Long-Term Approach

Beyond limiting smartphone use, a holistic approach to preventing hemorrhoids involves several key lifestyle adjustments. Maintaining a diet rich in fiber-found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains-promotes regular bowel movements and reduces straining. Adequate hydration is equally crucial, helping to soften stool and ease passage. Regular physical activity also contributes to healthy bowel function.

for those already experiencing hemorrhoid symptoms, over-the-counter remedies like creams and suppositories can provide temporary relief. However, persistent or severe symptoms warrant a consultation with a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions and discuss appropriate treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hemorrhoids & Smartphone Use

• What are the primary symptoms of hemorrhoids? Symptoms often include pain, itching, and bleeding around the anus, as well as discomfort during bowel movements.
• Does smartphone use directly *cause* hemorrhoids? The study suggests it increases the *risk* by extending the time spent sitting, which can exacerbate pressure in the anal region.
• How long is *too* long to spend on the toilet? Researchers found that exceeding five minutes significantly increases risk, especially when combined with smartphone use.
• What dietary changes can help prevent hemorrhoids? Increasing your fiber intake and drinking plenty of water are key dietary changes for prevention.
• Are hemorrhoids a serious medical condition? while often uncomfortable, most hemorrhoids are not life-threatening. However, persistent or severe symptoms shoudl be evaluated by a doctor.
• Can hemorrhoids be treated at home? Many mild cases can be managed with over-the-counter treatments, but medical intervention might be necessary for more severe instances.
• Is there a correlation between age and the risk of hemorrhoids? Yes, the risk increases with age due to the natural weakening of supporting tissues.

Are you guilty of scrolling on your phone during bathroom breaks? What steps will you take to modify your habits to protect your health? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Is there a correlation between increased screen time on the toilet and reported cases of constipation?

The Unexpected connection: Prolonged Sitting & Hemorrhoids

Many of us are guilty of it – bringing our smartphones into the bathroom for a few extra minutes of scrolling, gaming, or catching up on social media. While seemingly harmless, this habit can considerably contribute to the development or worsening of hemorrhoids. The core issue isn’t the phone itself, but what it encourages: prolonged sitting on the toilet.

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the anus and rectum. they can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. While various factors contribute to their development, increased pressure in the rectal area is a primary cause. Spending extended periods seated, especially while straining, directly increases this pressure. This is why jobs requiring long hours of sitting are often linked to higher rates of rectal bleeding and anal discomfort.

Why the Bathroom Isn’t a Good Place for Your phone

Here’s a breakdown of why your bathroom phone habit is problematic:

* increased Sitting Time: The average toilet visit should be brief. Phone use extends this, frequently enough significantly. Studies show people spend an average of 5-10 minutes longer in the bathroom when using their phones.

* Straining: Scrolling and focusing on a screen can distract you from your body’s signals. You might unconsciously strain during bowel movements, exacerbating pressure. Constipation, a major contributor to hemorrhoids, is often worsened by straining.

* poor Posture: Slouching or contorting your body to comfortably view your phone while seated can further compromise blood flow and increase rectal pressure.

* Ignoring the Urge: Distraction can lead to ignoring the natural urge to go,perhaps leading to constipation and harder stools.

Understanding Hemorrhoid Symptoms & Severity

Recognizing the symptoms of hemorrhoids is crucial for early intervention. Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity:

* Internal hemorrhoids: Often painless, but can cause shining red blood on toilet paper or in the stool. they may prolapse (bulge out) during bowel movements.

* External Hemorrhoids: More likely to cause pain, itching, and swelling around the anus. Can sometimes form a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid), causing severe pain.

Hemorrhoid grades (I-IV) indicate increasing severity and prolapse. Grade I are small bleeding hemorrhoids,while Grade IV are prolapsed and cannot be reduced manually.

The Link Between Digital Device Use & Bowel Habits

Beyond the bathroom, excessive screen time can indirectly impact bowel health. A sedentary lifestyle, frequently enough associated with frequent phone use, contributes to:

* Reduced Physical Activity: Less movement slows down digestion.

* Poor Diet Choices: Mindless snacking while scrolling often leads to a diet low in fiber and high in processed foods. Low-fiber diet is a critically important risk factor for constipation.

* Dehydration: Forgetting to drink enough water while engrossed in your phone can lead to harder stools.

Preventative Measures: Breaking the Bathroom Phone Habit

Fortunately, this is a preventable issue. Here are actionable steps you can take:

1. Designated Phone-Free Zone: Make the bathroom a phone-free zone. Leave your phone in another room.
2. Set Time Limits: If you must have your phone nearby, set a strict time limit (e.g., 2 minutes) and use a timer.
3. Prioritize Fiber: Increase your intake of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Aim for 25-30 grams of fiber per day.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
5. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to promote healthy digestion.
6. Respond to the Urge: Don’t ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
7. Proper Toilet Posture: Consider using a squatty potty or similar device to elevate your feet while on the toilet. This can help straighten the anorectal angle and make bowel movements easier.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many cases of hemorrhoids resolve on their own with lifestyle changes, it’s important to consult a doctor if you experience:

* Severe pain

* Prolonged bleeding

* Blood in your stool that isn’t bright red

* Symptoms that don’t improve after a week of self-care

* Signs of infection (fever, pus)

A healthcare professional can accurately diagnose