Piles Alert! Are You Using Your Phone in the Toilet? AIIMS Expert Warns This Habit Can Land You in Hospital

Let’s face it—almost everyone wakes up and immediately checks their phone. And for many, that phone follows them straight into the washroom. While it may seem harmless—just a routine scroll through social media or catching up on work—this habit might be silently harming your health. In a recent video on Instagram, AIIMS expert Dr Priyanka Sehrawat revealed how prolonged sitting on the toilet seat, especially while using your smartphone, could increase your risk of developing piles, also known as haemorrhoids.

Sitting Too Long on the Toilet Can Trigger Piles

Dr Sehrawat explains that piles, or haemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the lowest part of the rectum.

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A major reason behind their development is spending too much time sitting on the toilet. The design of Western-style toilet seats naturally puts pressure on the rectal veins. If you’re sitting for 15 to 20 minutes while using your phone or reading, the continuous pressure obstructs blood flow, causing veins to swell and inflame—leading to piles. This seemingly harmless habit, when repeated daily, may gradually cause damage that’s difficult to reverse.

Constipation Makes It Worse – Add More Fibre

Apart from prolonged sitting, constipation is another major trigger. Straining during bowel movements due to hard stools adds further pressure on the rectal area. Dr Sehrawat stresses the importance of consuming 25–30 grams of fibre every day to avoid constipation. Fibre-rich foods like green vegetables, seeds and nuts help soften the stool and promote smooth bowel movement. Also, ensure you drink 2–3 litres of water daily to keep your system hydrated and functioning well.

Is That Washroom Entertainment Really Worth It?

In her video, Dr Sehrawat subtly questions—Is that entertainment really worth the health risk? That five minutes of scrolling could stretch into 20 without notice, putting you at risk. Being mindful of your toilet habits and resisting the urge to carry your phone inside can go a long way in preventing piles. Your body—and especially your veins—will thank you for it.

If you or someone you know frequently takes the phone into the washroom, it might be time to rethink the habit. Your daily scroll could be silently damaging your health.