Stop scrolling ‘rolls’ on the toilet seat! This daily bathroom habit can be dangerous for you

Scrolling through TikTok, Instagram or any other social media and watching reels while sitting on the toilet seat has become a common habit for many people, often leading to extended periods in the bathroom, but while it may be a harmless seems like a way to pass the time.

Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time can have several negative health effects, both physical and psychological.

Understanding these effects and how long is too long can help prevent potential harm.

How long is too long?

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Gleneagles Hospitals in Parel Mumbai, “Taking mobile to the toilet itself is a strict no-no. Many people also tend to read books or newspapers, which is also not recommended at all. In addition, many people spend hours on their phones on the toilet, which can cause hemorrhoids or hemorrhoids. This is because the pressure created by resting on the toilet seat can swell the veins in your rectal area leading to painful swelling, irritation. and bleeding during bowel movements. You may also experience constipation or difficulty emptying your bowels.

She added: ‘You can also suffer from gastroenteritis, cholera, typhoid and hepatitis. You should refrain from spending 30 minutes to 45 minutes on the toilet as many people do lately, which has now become an increasing concern. spending more than 7 minutes on the toilet. The maximum is 10 minutes, but do not exceed that.”

Does changing positions actually help?

Dr. Manjusha Agarwal replied, “Sitting for long periods of time in a conventional sitting position can lead to straining or difficulty in inducing bowel movements. This is largely because the angle of the hips and knees do not facilitate optimal alignment, making elimination easier. or use a footstool to elevate your feet, creating a more natural path for the body to efficiently remove waste.”

Dr. Explaining his expertise on the same, Rajeev Premnath, general laparoscopic surgeon and endoscopist at Hitech Hernia Center of Ramakrishna Hospital, Jayanagar in Bengaluru, said, “Swollen and inflamed veins in the lower rectum and around the anus, known as hemorrhoids, are a common source of pain, discomfort and bleeding. These troublesome veins often develop as a result of pressure, which can result from a variety of factors, including prolonged periods of sitting/straining, especially on the toilet.”

He emphasized that not all types of sitting have the same impact, explaining: “For example, sitting on a hard surface puts more pressure on the rectal area than sitting on a cushioned seat. However, the most problematic scenario is sitting on a toilet for a long time. The design of a toilet seat positions the rectum lower than the rest of the buttocks, creating an unnatural position, combined with gravity, causing blood to pool in the veins, significantly increasing the chance of developing hemorrhoids. In addition, straining during bowel movements, often due to constipation, further increases pressure on the rectal veins. This combination of prolonged sitting and straining worsens the problem, leading to the development of new hemorrhoids and worsening of existing hemorrhoids.

Sitting for long periods of time is often associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Dr. Rajeev Premnath said, “Whether it is due to work or personal habits, sitting for long periods of time without exercise leads to poor blood circulation and sluggish bowel function. This inactivity increases the risk of hemorrhoids by disrupting regular bowel movements and increasing the likelihood of constipation Hemorrhoids, on the other hand, can be avoided by leading an active lifestyle. Regular exercise strengthens the muscles around the rectum, improves blood flow and supports healthy bowel function Your chances of experiencing this annoying problem can be significantly reduced by incorporating physical activity into your routine.

He advised avoiding hemorrhoids, especially those caused by sitting for long periods of time, and suggested: “Walk to promote circulation during your one-hour breaks. Avoid distractions and keep your toilet time to a maximum of five minutes. If you suffer from constipation , try again later. Avoid straining during bowel movements. To maintain good bowel function and prevent constipation, be hydrated and eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor if you have any questions about a medical condition.