Scrolling on your phone while on the toilet might feel harmless, but doctors say it could be hurting your health. A new study found that people who use smartphones in the bathroom stay seated much longer — and that extra time is tied to a 46% higher risk of hemorrhoids. Sitting too long puts extra pressure on rectal veins, and the distraction of social media or news feeds makes it easy to overstay.
Hemorrhoids are becoming more common in younger adults, and experts say bathroom phone use may be one reason why. Sitting on an open toilet already increases pressure in the rectal area, and poor posture from hunching over a phone makes it worse. While diet and exercise still matter, bathroom habits are now seen as an overlooked risk factor.
Doctors recommend keeping bathroom visits under five minutes and leaving your phone outside. Setting a timer, eating more fiber, and practicing healthy bowel habits can all help lower the risk. As one expert explained: slowing down is usually good for your health — but in the bathroom, shorter really is better.
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