Why Smartphone Use on the Toilet May Increase Hemorrhoid Risk

Why spending too long on your phone in the bathroom may backfire

BOSTON, Massachusetts — That casual scroll through social media while sitting on the toilet may carry unexpected consequences, according to research conducted by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School.

Common Bathroom Habit Linked to 46% Higher Risk of Hemorrhoids, Study Finds

d3sign / Getty Images Scrolling on the toilet is a popular—but potentially problematic—habit.A new study found a link between phone use on the toilet and an increased risk of hemorrhoids.Sitting on the toilet for too long can compress hemorrhoid veins, experts said.When it comes to toilet time, experts suggest leaving your phone outside the bathroom. If you like to bring your phone to the bathroom, you might be more likely to develop hemorrhoids…

Using phone while sitting on toilet raises hemorrhoid risk

There’s nothing like shutting the bathroom door, maybe even locking it and hiding away from one’s family, even just for a few minutes.

Why smartphone use on the toilet may increase hemorrhoid risk

Adults using smartphones on the toilet spent significantly more time seated and had 46% higher odds of hemorrhoids on colonoscopy. The cross-sectional study suggests prolonged sitting, not straining, may be the key driver of hemorrhoid risk.

Indian American gastroenterologist links hemorrhoids to cellphone use in bathrooms

Hemorrhoids are among the most frequent gastrointestinal complaints in the United States, sending millions of people to clinics and emergency rooms each year and costing the health system hundreds of millions of dollars. Despite their prevalence, the causes remain poorly defined. Constipation, straining, pregnancy, and low-fiber diets have all been implicated, but Indian American gastroenterologist Trisha Pasricha and colleagues wondered whether…