Top NHS GP reveals why spending too long on the toilet 'doom scrolling' can be disastrous for your health
Smartphone-loving Britons are so attached to the devices that 60 per cent of us admit to using them while sitting on the toilet.
But scrolling on the loo for minutes on end could trigger a host of health problems, one top NHS GP has warned.
According to Dr Punam Krishan, who appears on BBC Morning Live, these include haemorrhoids, also known as piles, a weakened pelvic floor—triggering continence issues—and, in extreme cases, lead to a painful condition called rectal prolapse.
Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the back passage that can cause itching, discomfort, bleeding, and a persistent feeling of needing to pass stool.
Though often dismissed as minor or embarrassing, haemorrhoids are extremely common—affecting an estimated one in three adults in the UK at some point.
And the increase in prolonged toilet sitting, often coupled with mobile phone use, is quietly contributing to a rise in cases, Dr Krishnan said.
In an Instagram video posted to her 100,000 plus followers the resident doctor on BBC Morning Live said sitting on the loo for too long 'puts constant pressure on veins' and tissues of the lower rectum.
Over time, this can lead to the swelling and inflammation that characterise haemorrhoids.
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A post shared by Dr Punam Krishan (@drpunamkrishan)
In some cases, the pressure may also contribute to the weakening of muscles that support the rectum and anus, setting the stage for more serious complications.
One of these is rectal prolapse, a condition in which the rectum becomes stretched and begins to protrude from the anus, she said.
While less common, rectal prolapse is far more serious and often requires surgical intervention.
She added: 'Long sitting spells actually slows down the flood flow to the leg. Over time that can increase your risk of developing varicose vein.'
It is also 'really bad' for your pelvic floor as 'straining on the toilet put pressure on your deep muscles that support your bladder and your bowel,' she said.
'In loads of countries people still squat to poo and there is a really good reason for doing that.
'Squatting naturally lines everything up. It changes the angle between your bowel and your bum so it is easier to go without having to strain.
'And actually in places where squatting is still the norm, people tend to have fewer problems with piles and constipation.'
She added: 'When you go to the toilet, do your business, wash your hands and get out. Aim to keep it under ten minutes.'
Although there is no universally agreed 'safe' length of time to spend on the toilet, most gastroenterologists agree that if a bowel movement doesn't happen within five to ten minutes, it's best to get up, move around and try again later.
Going for a short walk or gently moving the body can help stimulate bowel motility more naturally, without the need to strain.
Dietary habits also play a role. Low-fibre diets, dehydration and a sedentary lifestyle can all contribute to constipation and harder stools, which increase the likelihood of straining.
Doctors recommend eating more fibre-rich foods such as fruit, vegetables, beans and whole grains, as well as drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Physical activity, even just light daily movement, can also improve digestion and reduce the chances of constipation.
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