Bringing your smartphone to the toilet is a common practice, often done without thinking. Recent medical observations point to an association of this practice with certain widespread conditions.
This study conducted by Chethan Ramprasad from the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the United States and his team was made public in
PLOS One. They sought to understand whether the time spent sitting with a phone could influence the appearance of certain conditions. Their work is based on concrete medical data collected during routine examinations.
Illustrative image from Pixabay
Hemorrhoids represent a significant public health issue, with millions of annual consultations and substantial costs. They are characterized by the swelling of veins in the anal or rectal region, sometimes causing pain and bleeding. Health professionals have long mentioned the role of prolonged sitting in their development.
To explore this lead, the researchers interviewed 125 adults participating in screening colonoscopies. They filled out online questionnaires about their daily habits and toilet behaviors. The doctors also assessed the presence of hemorrhoids during the examinations. This method allowed for precise cross-referencing of information.
Among the participants, 66% reported using a smartphone in the toilet. These individuals were generally younger than the others. After adjusting for factors like age, physical activity, or fiber intake, the analysis reveals a 46% higher risk of hemorrhoids among phone users in the toilet.
People who brought their phone stayed seated longer. About 37% of users reported sessions exceeding five minutes, compared to only 7.1% for others. The main activities included checking news and social media. The team notes that straining during defecation was not associated with a greater risk in this analysis.
According to the researchers, using the phone can unconsciously extend the time spent in the toilet. Staying seated longer increases pressure in the anal and rectal veins, which could favor the formation of hemorrhoids. Future studies could follow people over a longer period to confirm this link and test approaches aimed at reducing toilet time.
For now, the team suggests leaving the phone outside the room and limiting the duration of visits.
Hemorrhoids: a common condition
Hemorrhoids affect many people at some point in their lives. They correspond to the swelling of veins located in the anal canal or rectum. This dilation can be internal or external, causing variable symptoms depending on the individual.
Several factors contribute to their appearance. Increased pressure in the abdominal region, such as during pregnancy or intense physical efforts, plays a role. Bowel habits, particularly chronic constipation, are also often involved. Natural aging weakens the supporting tissues of the veins, increasing susceptibility.
Common signs include painless bleeding during bowel movements, itching, or anal discomfort. In some cases, protrusion or pain may occur. Most episodes are mild and resolve on their own with simple care.
To prevent these inconveniences, it is recommended to adopt a diet rich in fiber and drink enough water. Avoiding sitting too long in the toilet and practicing regular physical activity helps maintain good blood circulation. Consulting a healthcare professional in case of persistent symptoms allows for an appropriate diagnosis.