Doctor urges five-minute toilet timer as doom-scrolling linked to hemorrhoids
Harvard-trained gastroenterologist warns that extended toilet time and phone use may raise hemorrhoid risk; new study ties smartphone use to longer bathroom sessions
A Harvard-trained gastroenterologist has urged people to limit time spent on the toilet, saying extended sitting increases pressure on the rectal veins and raises the risk of hemorrhoids. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, who shares gut-health guidance with more than 1.3 million followers, highlighted the issue in a recent video.
The clip, which has drawn more than 485,000 views and 9,800 likes, outlines common mistakes people make while on the toilet, with doom-scrolling identified as the biggest contributor to longer sessions. Sethi cautioned against spending too long on the throne, noting that extra sitting time can raise the risk of piles.
New US research confirms a link between smartphone use on the toilet and hemorrhoid risk. The study included 125 adults and found those who used a phone on the toilet were more likely to spend more than five minutes there. Most participants used the time to read news or scroll through social media, while others checked emails, texted, played games or watched videos. Lead author Trisha Pasricha, of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, urged people to consider why bathroom time is taking longer and to leave smartphones outside the bathroom to keep sessions short.
The study also found that straining during bowel movements was not linked to an increased hemorrhoid risk, contrary to some earlier work. Still, Dr. Sethi emphasized that pushing during a difficult movement can worsen hemorrhoids and related problems, including anal fissures and, in rare cases, rectal prolapse. He advised focusing on deep breathing to help movement rather than pushing, a technique supported by a 2022 study showing deep breathing can alleviate constipation for IBS patients.
In addition to phone use, another common mistake is delaying a bowel movement. Holding it in can cause stool to harden and worsen constipation, so Sethi advised listening to the body and going when the urge arises.
Public health context: NHS data show about half of the UK population will develop one or more hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Hemorrhoids often heal with home care within a few days, but medical advice is advised if symptoms persist for more than seven days. Common signs include bright red blood after a bowel movement, itching around the anus, and a persistent feeling of incomplete evacuation. Other symptoms can include mucus in underwear or on toilet paper, lumps around the anus, and pain.
Prevention and care: A high-fiber diet and adequate hydration can help prevent hemorrhoids, along with regular physical activity and avoiding prolonged sitting. If symptoms worsen or do not improve despite home care, a clinician should be consulted.
Bottom line: Experts say simple changes to toilet habits—such as reducing time on the loo, avoiding phone use while seated, and responding promptly to the body's urge—may help reduce hemorrhoid risk and improve overall gut health.