Brits are being urged to ditch a modern-day bathroom habit, as leading surgeons draw a direct line between smartphone use on the loo and a painful, rising health concern.
A new and worrying trend has emerged in UK clinics: a significant surge in cases of haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, and doctors are pointing the finger at our beloved mobile phones. It appears the irresistible urge to scroll through social media, check emails, or read news articles while on the toilet is keeping people seated for far too long.
The Science Behind The Strain
This isn't just anecdotal. Medical experts explain that spending extended periods seated on the toilet increases pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus. This prolonged pressure is a primary cause of the swelling and inflammation that characterises haemorrhoids.
"The smartphone has become the ultimate distraction," a representative from The Haemorrhoid Clinic UK noted. "What was once a brief biological process has morphed into a 20-minute multimedia session, and our bodies are paying the price."
A Younger Generation Affected
While piles have traditionally been associated with older adults or pregnancy, clinicians are now reporting a sharp rise in cases among younger, healthy individuals. This shift is being directly attributed to the tech-driven extension of toilet breaks.
The problem is compounded by the posture we adopt. Leaning over a screen can disrupt natural alignment, putting even more strain on sensitive areas and potentially leading to more severe complications.
Expert Advice For Prevention
Surgeons have a simple, clear message: get on and get off. The toilet is for business, not pleasure.
- Leave your phone outside the bathroom. This is the most effective way to break the habit.
- Limit your time on the toilet. If you haven't finished within a few minutes, it's best to get up and return later.
- Respond to your body's natural urges instead of delaying a trip to the loo, which can lead to constipation and harder stools.
- Increase fibre intake and stay hydrated to promote healthy digestion and avoid straining.
Ignoring this advice could lead to severe pain, itching, bleeding, and in some cases, requiring surgical intervention. This public health warning serves as a crucial reminder that some modern conveniences come with unexpected and uncomfortable consequences.
