In today’s digital-first world, most of us carry our smartphones everywhere—including the bathroom. But a new peer-reviewed study published in PLOS ONE suggests this innocent-looking habit could have serious health consequences.
Researchers found that using your phone while sitting on the toilet may increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids (piles) by nearly 50%.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. They can be:
- Internal – Located inside the rectum.
- External – Found under the skin around the anus.
Symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort
- Itching or irritation in the anal region
- Rectal bleeding
- Swelling or a lump around the anus
Though not usually life-threatening, hemorrhoids can cause significant discomfort and often recur if lifestyle factors are not addressed.
🔬 The Study: Toilet Phone Use and Hemorrhoid Risk
The research team studied 125 adults undergoing colonoscopy. Participants completed questionnaires about:
- Bowel habits
- Use of smartphones on the toilet
- Diet (fiber intake)
- Exercise routines
- Hemorrhoid symptoms
Key Findings:
- 66.4% admitted to using a smartphone in the toilet.
- Phone users spent longer than 5 minutes on average sitting on the toilet.
- After adjusting for diet, age, sex, BMI, and exercise, smartphone users were 46% more likely to experience hemorrhoid symptoms.
- 43% of all participants had hemorrhoids detected during colonoscopy.
📉 Why Does This Happen?
The issue isn’t straining as much as time spent on the toilet. Sitting for prolonged periods puts excess pressure on rectal veins, which increases hemorrhoid risk.
Factors that make it worse:
- Sitting position – unlike squatting, it doesn’t align the rectal canal naturally.
- Distraction – scrolling, reading, or watching videos makes people stay longer.
- Modern toilets – don’t support the pelvic floor effectively, unlike squatting postures.
🏥 Health Impact
Hemorrhoids are one of the most common gastrointestinal problems worldwide, accounting for:
- Millions of doctor visits every year
- Over $800 million in annual healthcare costs (U.S. data)
- Potential need for surgery in severe cases
While not life-threatening, untreated piles can significantly affect quality of life.
✅ How to Reduce Hemorrhoid Risk
Experts suggest small lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference:
- Limit Toilet Time – Aim for under 5 minutes.
- Avoid Bathroom Scrolling – Leave your phone outside.
- Use a Footstool – Elevates your feet and mimics squatting, making bowel movements easier.
- Eat Fiber-Rich Foods – Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains soften stool.
- Stay Hydrated – Drinking enough water prevents constipation.
- Exercise Regularly – Helps improve digestion and bowel function.
📊 Quick Facts at a Glance
| Factor | Risk Contribution |
|---|---|
| Smartphone use on toilet | +46% hemorrhoid risk |
| Sitting > 5 minutes | Higher pressure on rectal veins |
| Fiber-rich diet | Lowers risk significantly |
| Regular exercise | Supports bowel regularity |
📝 Takeaway
This study is a reminder that even small, seemingly harmless habits—like checking your phone on the toilet—can have a big impact on health. Limiting screen time in the bathroom, adopting a fiber-rich diet, and improving toilet posture may help protect against hemorrhoids.
Sometimes, better health begins with something simple: leaving your phone outside the bathroom door.
