Study Links Prolonged Phone Use on the Toilet to Increased Hemorrhoid Risk
New York, NY – A growing habit of extended phone scrolling during bathroom visits may be contributing to a rise in hemorrhoid cases, according to digestive health experts. While everyone is born with hemorrhoids, bothersome symptoms affect approximately 1 in 20 people, a number that increases to over half of those over age 50. Prolonged straining during bowel movements, often exacerbated by distraction, is a key factor in their progress.
Dr. Anish Sheth, a gastroenterologist, and Giresh Gandhi, a urologist, detailed the connection in their book, What’s Your Poop saying About You? They observed that individuals engrossed in their phones tend to sit on the toilet longer, increasing pressure on rectal veins.
“We’re seeing more and more patients who are spending excessive time on the toilet, often due to smartphone use,” explains Dr. Sheth. “This prolonged sitting and straining can significantly increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids.”
Hemorrhoids manifest in several forms:
internal: Often symptom-free, but can cause bleeding.
External: Swollen veins under the skin around the anus, causing bleeding, pain, and itching. Prolapsed: Internal hemorrhoids that bulge outside the anus, leading to bleeding and pain.
thrombosed: External hemorrhoids with a blood clot, causing a tender, blue or purple lump. The clot remains localized to the anus.
Fortunately,many cases of hemorrhoids resolve on their own or with at-home treatments. Experts recommend:
Adequate Fiber: Consuming approximately 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories to soften stool and ease bowel movements.
Topical Treatments: Utilizing over-the-counter ointments and creams containing hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or numbing agents.
Sitz Baths: Soaking the anal area in warm water for 10-15 minutes, two to three times daily.
Pain Relievers: Using NSAIDs like acetaminophen,aspirin,or ibuprofen for discomfort.
More severe cases may require minimally invasive procedures to cut off blood supply or shrink tissue,or even surgical removal,particularly in instances of thrombosed external hemorrhoids.
According to Satya Pasricha,a gastroenterologist,the solution is straightforward: “Leave the smartphones outside the bathroom. Just as we advise keeping them away from our bedside or dining tables to improve our well-being, the bathroom should be no different. Go in there with a plan to focus on one job and one job only.”
It’s important to note that any unexplained anal lumps should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes. A physical exam, and possibly an anoscope, can provide an accurate diagnosis.
