Doctors warn TikTok may give users hemorrhoids, but it’s easy to fix

Several doctors have warned patients that TikTok and other social media sites can cause hemorrhoids in users. But there is an easy way to prevent this.

In 2022 NordVPN published a study claiming that 65% of respondents (9,800 adults surveyed) said they use their phones in the bathroom.

While this isn’t a new concept for people who want to keep themselves occupied while going to the toilet, with books and newspapers being the main entertainment in front of the phone, it is actually the number one cause for one specific health problem – hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and rectum that can lead to pain, itching and bleeding. Mayo Clinic. Although they usually go away on their own, they can become severe enough to require medical attention and even surgery.

“One common cause is sitting on the toilet for long periods of time,” said Dr. David L. Schwartzbaum, a gastroenterologist. HuffPost.

“This is because when a person’s butt is in the space of the toilet seat, blood accumulates at the lowest point and causes increased pressure in the blood vessels of the anus, leading to hemorrhoids.”

While you’re on the phone and scrolling Tik Tok and other social media platforms can be a great source of entertainment while you go about your business, but they can also distract you, causing you to sit there longer than necessary.

“I tell my patients that sitting on the toilet for long periods of time causes blood to pool in the anal veins, which can lead to hemorrhoids, so it’s best not to spend time sitting and scrolling.” Dr. Joe from TikTok warned his 2.1 million followers.

So how much time should you spend on the toilet? Dr. Schwarzbaum advises sticking to his 10-15 minute rule.

“In general, I would recommend limiting bowel movements to 10 to 15 minutes at most to reduce the risk of hemorrhoids,” he said.

“I also advise them to avoid scrolling on their phone and reading for long periods of time on the toilet. If you need a break from the rest of the world, sit on the toilet seat.”

It’s just the latest habit to raise concern among experts after A psychologist speaks out against the viral craze for the “winter arc”.