The Dirty Consequences of Using Your Smartphone on the Toilet: How It Can Cause Piles
Introduction: In today's digital age, it's become increasingly common for people to bring their smartphones everywhere, including the bathroom. However, this seemingly harmless habit of using your phone on the toilet can have dirty consequences for your health. In this article, we will explore the risks associated with using smartphones while pooping, particularly the link between prolonged sitting, increased pressure on the anus, and the development of Piles. We will also discuss the potential contamination of smartphones with fecal bacteria and provide tips for a healthier bathroom routine.
- The Link Between Prolonged Sitting and Piles: Prolonged sitting on the toilet, often accompanied by smartphone use, can increase the risk of developing Piles. While there is no definitive research on the direct correlation, experts are concerned about the potential connection. Colorectal surgeon Dr. Karen Zaghiyan explains that sitting on the toilet for an extended period can cause Piles problems, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, or bleeding. It's important to note that everyone has Piles, as they are a collection of veins inside and outside the anus.
- Contamination of Smartphones with Fecal Bacteria: Using your smartphone on the toilet also poses a risk of contaminating it with fecal bacteria. Studies have revealed that phones can harbor E.coli and other harmful microbes. Shockingly, research has found that the average smartphone screen is even dirtier than a toilet seat. Considering the potential lack of sanitation in public bathrooms, where multiple people spend time, it's crucial to be aware of the contamination risks associated with smartphone use in these settings.
- Mindful Bathroom Habits for Better Health: To avoid the discomfort of Piles and the bacterial grossness associated with smartphone use on the toilet, it's important to adopt mindful bathroom habits. Here are some tips:
- Spend only as much time on the toilet as necessary. If a bowel movement doesn't occur after a couple of minutes, get up and try again later.
- Limit your time on the toilet to 1 to 15 minutes, as longer durations may indicate constipation.
- Avoid sitting and straining for extended periods. If you tend to get distracted, consider setting a timer to remind you when it's time to get up and move on.
- Consider investing in a bidet for a cleaner alternative to wiping. Warm, pressurized water can provide relief to your anal muscles.
- Practice thorough handwashing after using the bathroom, following the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- If you must use your smartphone in the bathroom, close the toilet seat after flushing to prevent fecal particles from landing on your phone and other body parts.
- Regularly clean your phone with disinfecting wipes to maintain its cleanliness.
Conclusion: While using your smartphone on the toilet may seem like a harmless way to pass the time, it can have negative implications for your health. Prolonged sitting and straining, combined with increased pressure on the anus, can contribute to the development of Piles. Additionally, the risk of smartphone contamination with fecal bacteria is a concern, particularly in public bathrooms. By adopting mindful bathroom habits and practicing proper hygiene, you can minimize these risks and promote better overall health. So, the next time you reach for your phone in the bathroom, think twice about the potential consequences and prioritize your well-being.
