It is forbidden to take the mobile to the bathroom - these are the reasons according to Dr Karan Raj
It may surprise you, but prolonged sitting on the toilet can lead to unexpected health consequences.
Today, when we all have smartphones, tablets and other handheld devices, people spend a long time sitting on the toilet, scrolling through social media or checking emails.
This habit, which apparently sounds harmless, can cause various health problems over time.
But there are some practical tips to reduce these risks, and they are easy to follow:
1. Hemorrhoids:
One of the most common health problems associated with prolonged sitting on the toilet is hemorrhoids.
When you sit for a long time, especially on a hard surface, it puts pressure on the veins in the anus area, which leads to the development of swollen and inflamed blood vessels called hemorrhoids, a phenomenon that causes discomfort, pain and even bleeding during bowel movements.
2. Intestinal stretching:
prolonged sitting on the toilet can also lead to intestinal tension.
Prolonged sitting in which the body is in a relaxed state makes it difficult to pass stool efficiently.
This can cause straining during bowel movements, which can increase the risk of developing conditions such as constipation.
3. Dysfunction of the pelvic floor:
sitting too long on the toilet may contribute to dysfunction of the pelvic floor.
The pelvic floor muscles support the pelvic organs, including the bladder and rectum.
Prolonged sitting may weaken these muscles over time, leading to problems such as urinary incontinence, prolapse of the pelvic organs and difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
A woman uses a mobile phone in the bathroom/ShutterStock, phone on the loo
How will you avoid it?
1. Limit the time spent sitting in the toilet:
try to limit the time spent sitting only to the time required.
Avoid prolonged sitting, you can set a timer to remind yourself to get up or move after a reasonable period of time.
2. Maintain good posture:
When using the toilet, maintain good posture to reduce the load on the pelvic floor and lower back.
Sit with your feet flat on the floor and your knees slightly higher than your hips.
Avoid slouching or leaning too far forward.
3. Use a stool:
It is recommended to consider using a footstool to raise your legs while sitting on the toilet.
This can help mimic a crouching position, which is a more natural position for bowel movements and may reduce the risk of straining.
4. Drinking a lot:
it is important to keep the digestive system hydrated by drinking a lot and eating foods rich in fiber: a diet rich in fiber and drinking will help with regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
The fibers help to soften the stool, make it easier to pass and reduce the need for prolonged sitting in the toilet.
5. Seek medical advice:
If you experience persistent discomfort, pain or other symptoms related to prolonged sitting in the toilet, seek medical advice.
A professional can provide personalized recommendations and treatment options to address your specific concerns.
We spend a lot of time in the bathroom during our daily lives, so it is essential to be aware of the health risks associated with prolonged sitting.
Simple lifestyle changes and following the tips detailed in this article can help prevent potential health problems.
Remember, moderation is key, even when it comes to bathroom breaks.
Dr. Alexia Buchris is a proctologist and gastroenterologist in the central district of the United Health Insurance Fund
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