Health experts said that using smartphones while sitting on the toilet increases the risk of developing hemorrhoids and bacterial infections [1], [2].
This habit is becoming increasingly common, particularly among young adults, creating an intersection between digital distraction and physical health complications [1], [2].
The primary concern involves the duration of time spent on the toilet. When individuals use phones for entertainment, they often remain seated longer than necessary. This prolonged sitting increases pressure on the rectal veins, which can lead to the development of hemorrhoids [2].
Beyond the physical strain of sitting, the environment presents a significant hygiene risk. Bathrooms are hubs for various germs, and smartphones act as surfaces that collect and retain these bacteria [1]. Because users often touch their devices and then touch their faces or other surfaces, the risk of contamination increases.
Eye strain is another noted complication. The combination of poor lighting in some bathrooms and the intense focus on a small screen can exacerbate visual fatigue [1].
Medical professionals said that the distraction provided by the device prevents users from recognizing their body's natural signals to finish the process and leave the bathroom. This cycle of distraction and prolonged pressure creates a recurring health hazard for those who treat the toilet as a place for browsing [1], [2].
“Using a cell phone in the bathroom can increase health risks such as hemorrhoids, bacterial contamination, and eye strain.”
The rise of 'bathroom scrolling' reflects a broader trend of digital dependency where screen time displaces basic health awareness. By extending the time spent in a high-bacteria environment and increasing pelvic venous pressure, a common daily habit is transforming into a preventable medical risk factor.
