That seemingly harmless habit of scrolling through your phone while on the toilet could be causing serious damage to your health, medical professionals are warning. Dubbed 'toilet scrolling', this modern behaviour is being linked to a significant increase in painful and uncomfortable conditions.
Why Your Phone is a Pain in the Backside
Experts explain that the problem isn't the phone itself, but the extended time spent sitting on the toilet. "The average bowel movement should take no more than five to ten minutes," explains one gastroenterologist. "When people bring their phones into the bathroom, they routinely sit for 20 minutes or more. This prolonged sitting increases pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, which can lead to or worsen haemorrhoids."
The Physical Cost of Digital Distraction
The issues don't stop at haemorrhoids (also known as piles). Doctors are reporting increases in cases of:
- Constipation: The distraction of a screen can disrupt the natural rhythm of your digestive system.
- Straining: Poor posture while focused on a screen can lead to ineffective straining.
- Pelvic floor damage: Extended, frequent sitting can weaken crucial muscles.
"We're seeing a new pattern of patients who don't have any obvious dietary causes for their problems," notes a colorectal surgeon. "The common factor is often this new habit of taking entertainment into the bathroom."
Breaking the Habit for Better Health
Medical advice is straightforward: leave the phone outside the bathroom. Re-establish the toilet as a functional space rather than an entertainment zone. If you find yourself consistently taking longer than five minutes, it might be worth discussing with your GP, as this could indicate an underlying digestive issue that needs addressing.
This simple change could prevent significant discomfort and more serious complications down the line. Your bottom will thank you for it.
