Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat @docpriyankasehrawat), MBBS, Lady Hardinge Medical College, MD Medicine and DM Neurology, AIIMS Delhi shared facts like Hemorrhoids, commonly referred to as piles, are swollen blood vessels located in the lower rectum or anus. These engorged veins can cause pain, itching, and bleeding, particularly during bowel movements. While most people know hemorrhoids can result from straining, did you realize that something as mundane as smartphone usage may also be contributing to their development?
Smartphones and Hemorrhoids
One of the more unexpected connections between smartphones and hemorrhoids lies in the extended time people spend sitting on the toilet. Here’s the problem the longer you sit, the more pressure is applied to the rectal veins due to the design of the toilet seat.
Sitting for more than 15 minutes? You’ve just increased your chances of developing hemorrhoids. Prolonged sitting causes blood to pool in those veins, which can lead to swelling, inflammation, and eventually, those dreaded hemorrhoids.
Constipation: Another Factor
Constipation is another key contributor. Straining during bowel movements increases pressure on already-sensitive veins. This added force can aggravate hemorrhoids or even cause them to form.
So what can you do to combat this?
The answer lies in dietary adjustments. Consuming an adequate amount of fiber about 25-30 grams daily can improve stool consistency, making bowel movements smoother and reducing the need for straining. Fiber-rich foods like leafy greens, beans, and seeds can work wonders, especially when combined with proper hydration.
Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat discusses the surprising link between smartphone usage and hemorrhoids.
Take care of yourself and maybe leave the phone outside the bathroom next time!
Steps to Prevent Hemorrhoids
1. Cut Down on Toilet Time
Try to limit your time on the toilet to 5-10 minutes. The goal is to avoid lingering for long periods, especially with a smartphone in hand. Finish your business and leave the scroll session for later.
2. Increase Fiber Intake
Prevent constipation by upping your fiber intake. As mentioned earlier, a diet rich in fiber supports easier bowel movements, decreasing the need to strain. Incorporate a variety of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains into your meals.
3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Staying well-hydrated plays a crucial role in digestion. Drinking at least 2-3 liters of water a day helps keep stools soft and easier to pass. Proper hydration paired with a fiber-rich diet significantly lowers your chances of constipation and hemorrhoid flare-ups.
Hemorrhoids may not always present obvious symptoms
- Painless bleeding during bowel movements
- Irritation or itching around the anus
- Pain during defecation or when cleaning the area
- Swelling or a palpable lump near the anus
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's really important to address them promptly to prevent further complications. While hemorrhoids aren’t usually serious, they can lead to chronic discomfort or even require medical intervention if ignored.
Final Thoughts
It might seem odd to link your smartphone habits with a condition like hemorrhoids, but modern lifestyles often have unintended consequences. By limiting your time on the toilet, improving your diet, and staying hydrated, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids. Remember, your health doesn’t have to take a backseat to your social media feed.
By Aniket Gupta