Hemorrhoids are common, but new research suggests that bringing your phone into the bathroom may increase your chances of developing them.
What the Study Found
A study published on September 3 in PLOS One examined the toilet habits of 125 adults undergoing colonoscopies at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. Nearly two-thirds admitted to scrolling on their phone while on the toilet. Those who did were 46% more likely to develop hemorrhoids compared to those who didn’t.
Phone users also tended to sit significantly longer—often five minutes or more per visit—and reported getting less physical activity overall. Both factors are known contributors to hemorrhoid development.
Why Sitting Too Long Matters
Extended sitting on the toilet increases pressure in rectal veins. This pressure is made worse by leaning forward while scrolling, which can lead to straining.
Doctors explain it this way: blood pools in the rectal veins, causing swelling. Over time, this pressure stretches the delicate tissue and increases the risk of hemorrhoids. Unlike sitting in a chair, the toilet offers little pelvic support, which further intensifies the strain.
Other common contributing factors include:
- Constipation and straining
- Low-fiber diets
- Chronic diarrhea
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged sitting at a desk
Symptoms to Watch For
Signs of hemorrhoids can range from mild discomfort to more concerning issues. Common symptoms include:
- Itching, swelling, or irritation around the anus
- Bright red blood after a bowel movement
- A sore, noticeable lump near the anus
Seek medical advice if you notice persistent or heavy bleeding, pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter care, symptoms lasting longer than a week, or stools that appear dark, black, or tarry.
How to Lower Your Risk
You don’t necessarily have to give up your phone completely, but limiting bathroom scrolling can make a difference. Additional lifestyle changes can also help:
- Use a footstool: Raising your knees slightly puts your body in a more natural position for bowel movements, reducing strain.
- Eat more fiber: Aim for 25–30 grams per day from fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Fiber softens stool, making it easier to pass.
- Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the day. Fiber works best with adequate fluids.
- Exercise regularly: Even light walking promotes regular bowel movements and reduces constipation.
- Practice safe lifting: When lifting heavy objects, bend at the knees to avoid adding unnecessary pressure to rectal veins.
Treatment Options
Most cases of hemorrhoids are mild and manageable at home. Helpful remedies include:
- Over-the-counter creams or suppositories
- Sitz baths
- Cold compresses
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
If symptoms are severe, recurrent, or not improving, medical procedures may be considered. Options include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or, in rare cases, surgery.
Bottom line: Small changes—like limiting phone use on the toilet, eating more fiber, staying hydrated, and moving more—can significantly reduce your risk of hemorrhoids.
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