The Hidden Dangers of Using Your Smartphone in the Toilet

Many of us have a habit of scrolling through our smartphones while sitting on the toilet. However, this seemingly harmless activity is not just a waste of time—it could pose serious risks to your health.

A recent U.S. study revealed that this habit can increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids, also known as piles, by up to 46%. **What Are Hemorrhoids?** Hemorrhoids are naturally present in every healthy person. They are clusters of soft tissue and blood vessels located at the anal opening, playing a crucial role in controlling bowel movements. Normally, they cause no issues, but when they become swollen or inflamed, symptoms such as pain, bleeding, itching, or a protrusion from the anus may occur. **Who Is at Higher Risk for Hemorrhoids?** The risk of developing hemorrhoids is higher in the following cases: 1. Age above 45 years 2. Pregnancy 3. Obesity 4. Chronic constipation or diarrhea 5. Regularly lifting heavy objects 6. Spending prolonged periods on the toilet **How Does Smartphone Use in the Toilet Contribute?** Research shows that sitting on the toilet for extended periods increases pressure on the pelvic floor and causes blood to pool in the hemorrhoidal veins, leading to swelling and symptoms. Scrolling on a smartphone often leads to longer toilet sessions, exacerbating this issue. **What the Study Says** A study conducted by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the U.S. involved 125 participants aged 45 or older, all of whom underwent colonoscopies to directly observe internal hemorrhoids. Among them, 66% reported using their smartphones while on the toilet, spending an average of more than 5 minutes per session. Additionally, 7% of participants who did not use smartphones still spent over 5 minutes on the toilet. The study found that those using smartphones on the toilet had a 46% higher risk of developing hemorrhoids. Interestingly, straining during bowel movements was not directly linked to hemorrhoids; instead, prolonged sitting was identified as the primary risk factor. **Study Limitations** The study relied on participants' self-reported data, such as time spent on the toilet or straining habits, which may not always be accurate. Additionally, the sample size was small, and all participants were over 45, so the findings may not apply to all age groups. **Previous Research** A 2020 study from Turkey found that spending more than 5 minutes on the toilet is linked to hemorrhoids. Similarly, an Italian study of 52 hemorrhoid patients showed that the longer the time spent on the toilet, the more severe the condition became. **Conclusion** To protect your health, avoid using your smartphone while on the toilet and limit the time spent there. Breaking this habit could significantly reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids.