A gastroenterologist has warned that using your phone on the toilet can have “serious health consequences.”
Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, said that there are two main health risks associated with using your phone on the toilet:
- Prolonged sitting: Sitting on the toilet for too long can put a strain on the rectum and anus, which can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and even rectal prolapse.
- Bacterial exposure: Smartphones are often covered in bacteria, which can be transferred to your hands when you use them on the toilet. If you don’t wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet, you could ingest the bacteria, which could lead to food poisoning or other illnesses.
Dr. Sethi also warned that using your phone on the toilet can be a distraction, which could lead to you not spending enough time wiping yourself. This could increase your risk of developing rectal problems.
“If you must use your phone on the toilet, try to keep it short and sweet,” Dr. Sethi said. “And be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterward.”
Here are some tips for reducing your risk of developing health problems associated with using your phone on the toilet:
- Limit the amount of time you spend sitting on the toilet.
- Avoid using your phone on the toilet altogether, if possible.
- If you must use your phone on the toilet, wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
- Use a hands-free device, such as a speakerphone, if possible.
- Clean your phone regularly with a disinfectant wipe.
Your Queries Answered:
Q: What are the health risks of using your phone on the toilet? A: There are two main health risks associated with using your phone on the toilet: prolonged sitting and bacterial exposure. Prolonged sitting can put a strain on the rectum and anus, which can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and even rectal prolapse. Smartphones are often covered in bacteria, which can be transferred to your hands when you use them on the toilet. If you don’t wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet, you could ingest the bacteria, which could lead to food poisoning or other illnesses.
Q: How long is it safe to sit on the toilet? A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on a number of factors, such as your age, health, and the type of toilet you are using. However, most experts recommend that you limit the amount of time you spend sitting on the toilet to 10 minutes or less.
Q: What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids? A: The symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, common symptoms include pain, itching, bleeding, and swelling around the anus.
Q: What are the symptoms of anal fissures? A: The symptoms of anal fissures can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, common symptoms include pain, itching, bleeding, and difficulty passing stool.
Q: What are the symptoms of rectal prolapse? A: The symptoms of rectal prolapse can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, common symptoms include a feeling of fullness or pressure in the rectum, difficulty passing stool, and a visible bulge in the anus.
Q: What can I do to prevent hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and rectal prolapse? A: There are a number of things you can do to prevent hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and rectal prolapse, including:
- Limiting the amount of time you spend sitting on the toilet
- Eating a high-fiber diet
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Avoiding straining during bowel movements
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Q: How can I clean my phone to prevent the spread of bacteria? A: You can clean your phone to prevent the spread of bacteria by wiping it down with a disinfectant wipe. Be sure to wipe all surfaces of your phone, including the screen, the back, and the sides.
Q: What are some tips for reducing my risk of developing health problems associated with using my phone on the toilet? A: Here are some tips for reducing your risk of developing health problems associated with using your phone on the toilet:
- Limit the amount of time you spend sitting on the toilet.
- Avoid using your phone on the toilet altogether, if possible.
- If you must use your phone on the toilet, wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
- Use a hands-free device, such as a speakerphone, if possible.
- Clean your phone regularly with a disinfectant wipe.
Q: What should I do if I have any concerns about my health? A: If you have any concerns about your health, please consult with a doctor.