Medical article
Phones and books on the toilet: why give them up?
Looking at a phone or reading a book on the toilet is an everyday habit for many people. But sitting on the toilet for a long time increases the pressure on the blood vessels of the anal area and is one of the risk factors for hemorrhoids.
Why is it harmful?
When you sit on the toilet, the clusters of blood vessels in the anal canal are pushed downward and fill with blood. The longer this lasts, the more the pressure on the blood vessels increases. A person who spends time on a phone often strains without realizing it. Together with long-term constipation, pregnancy and straining, this habit can set the stage for hemorrhoids to develop and get worse.
Healthy toilet habits
- Go to the toilet only when you feel the urge, and do not put it off.
- Do not sit on the toilet for more than 3–5 minutes.
- Do not take your phone or a book to the toilet.
- Do not strain. If you cannot have a bowel movement, get up and try again later.
- Put a small stool under your feet.
- Eat fiber-rich food and drink enough water.
These simple habits help prevent hemorrhoids, anal fissure and constipation.