Using smartphones while sitting on the toilet may be linked to an increased risk of developing hemorrhoids, according to a recent study discussed by Dr. Neeharika Kalakota, a gastroenterologist at Houston Methodist. The study surveyed 125 people aged 45 and older and found that over 60% admitted to using their phones on the toilet at least once, with most doing so weekly.
“Interestingly, the study participants who used their phones on the toilet had an almost 50% increased risk of developing hemorrhoids,” said Dr. Kalakota.
However, Dr. Kalakota emphasized that there are limitations to the findings. “It certainly raises an important question, but we have to be careful about drawing firm conclusions,” she said. “The sample size was fairly small and the data self-reported — that latter of which can introduce recall bias, meaning participants may not accurately remember and report their habits.”
She also noted that because only people aged 45 and older were included in the study, results may not apply to younger individuals. Additionally, since the research was cross-sectional rather than longitudinal, it could not determine whether phone use actually preceded hemorrhoid development.
Dr. Kalakota explained how posture while using a phone could play a role: “When you’re hunched over your phone, you’re changing the angle at which the rectum meets the anus,” she said. “An abnormal anorectal angle increases the pressure on blood vessels in the rectum. If this pressure is maintained for a long period of time, it could increase the risk of symptomatic hemorrhoids.”
Instead of avoiding phones altogether in restrooms, Dr. Kalakota recommended focusing on proper posture: “Proper posture can help support a normal anorectal angle. Make sure you’re sitting upright,” she advised. She also suggested considering a toilet stool for better body alignment.
The duration spent sitting on toilets emerged as another concern from the study’s findings; those who used their phones tended to spend more time seated — with 35% spending more than five minutes per visit. Extended periods on toilets are already recognized as increasing hemorrhoid risk.
Other known factors contributing to hemorrhoids include straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, low-fiber diets, lifting heavy objects, obesity, and pregnancy.
To reduce risk beyond limiting bathroom time and maintaining good posture:
– Increase fiber intake through vegetables, fruits and whole grains; aim for 25–35 grams daily.
– Use fiber supplements or stool softeners if needed.
– Drink at least 64 ounces of water per day unless restricted by medical conditions.
– Use a toilet stool to encourage proper alignment during bowel movements.
– Stay physically active to support digestion and manage weight.
– Consult a doctor if experiencing chronic constipation (lasting more than four weeks) or ongoing diarrhea for further evaluation.
“Your primary care doctor will start the blood workups and stool tests needed to help determine what might be causing diarrhea,” Dr. Kalakota explained. “Depending on the results, lifestyle changes that help reduce diarrhea may be recommended.”
