What happens between closed bathroom doors is between you and your toilet, but your phone shouldn’t be a part of it, according to a doctor.
While it might seem tempting to bring your device to entertain yourself, a board-certified gastroenterologist warned this practice could have “serious” health impacts.
In a TikTok, Dr. Saurabh Sethi urged people to “stop scrolling through the phone” while using the loo.
He said: “While it may seem harmless to scroll through your social media feed or answer some emails while on the toilet, it can actually have some serious consequences.”
The doctor warned of two types of health problems that are linked to using your phone while going for number two.
READ MORE Doctor shares gruesome reason you should never use your phone on the toilet
@doctorsethimd Here is why you should stop using phone on the toilet #guthealth #guttok #healthtips #hemorrhoids #analfissuretok #constipation #phone #healthtok ♬ original sound – Dr Sethi Gastroenterologist
Dr Sethi said: “First, using your phone while doing number two can lead to prolonged sitting on the toilet, which can cause strain and pressure on your rectum and anus.
“This can lead to issues such as haemorrhoids, anal fissures and even rectal prolapse.”
Haemorrhoids, or piles, develop when the veins or blood vessels around your bottom become swollen.
Fortunately, this common but itchy issue often gets better on its own after a few days, the NHS explains.
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Anal fissures are a bit more serious, referring to tears or open sores that develop in the lining of the large intestine, near the anus.
The health service recommends seeing a GP if you think you have an anal fissure.
Worryingly, rectal prolapse is by far the most serious issue as it occurs when the rectum becomes stretched out and slips out of your anus. This often needs to be addressed with surgery.
However, these three conditions aren’t the only reason for keeping the phone out of the bathroom.
Dr Sethi said: “Another issue is that it can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
“Studies have found that an average smartphone is dirtier than a public toilet seat, so try avoiding scrolling while using the toilet.”
However, the gastroenterologist offered one more tip for those who can’t be unglued from their phones.
“If you can’t help it, at least have a disinfectant wipe around to clean the phone after you’re done with the business,” he added.
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