It has become common to use your cell phone in the toilet, but experts warn of the dangers of the habit. So what are these risks?
Tl;dr
- Using your phone in the bathroom can be risky.
- Prolonged sitting on the toilet can cause health problems.
- Tips to avoid problems: walk, hydrate, eat fiber.
The cell phone trap in the toilet
It is becoming more and more common to take your smartphone to the toilet. Although this practice may seem harmless, it can nevertheless carry health risks.
The dangers of sitting on the toilet for too long
Dr. Lai Xue, a colorectal surgeon at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, recently called attention to the risks of sitting on the toilet for too long. According to him, sitting for more than 10 minutes could lead to several complications.
The main culprit is gravity. Indeed, prolonged sitting on a toilet bowl, combined with the oval shape of the seat, compresses the buttocks and keeps the rectum in a low position. This phenomenon disrupts blood circulation in the anal area, which promotes the development of hemorrhoids.
Other possible complications
Additionally, sitting on the toilet for too long can lead to weakening of the pelvic muscles and even an increased risk of rectal prolapse (when the rectum, part of the large intestine, slips down and out of the anus).
What to do in case of constipation?
If you’re having trouble relieving yourself, Dr. Xue recommends staying in the bathroom for no more than 10 minutes. Here are his tips for stimulating transit:
- “Walk a little if necessary”
- “Maintain good hydration”
- “Eat enough fiber”
Health
