Using the toilet is an essential daily routine for everyone, but did you know that sitting on the toilet for too long can be dangerous to your health? While it may seem harmless, prolonged sitting on the toilet can cause several health problems that you should be aware of. In this article, we'll explore the dangers of sitting on the toilet for too long and the steps you can take to prevent them, in line with a health publication from Healthline.
Hemorrhoids:
One of the most common health problems that can arise from prolonged sitting on the toilet is hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can be painful, itchy, and can even bleed. Sitting on the toilet for too long puts pressure on the rectum, which can cause the veins to swell and become inflamed. This can lead to hemorrhoids, which can be extremely uncomfortable and may require medical treatment.
Urinary Tract Infections:
Sitting on the toilet for too long can also increase your risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing an infection. Prolonged sitting on the toilet can lead to poor bladder emptying, which can cause bacteria to grow and increase the risk of a UTI. Symptoms of a UTI include painful urination, frequent urination, and lower abdominal pain.
Numbness and Tingling:
Sitting on the toilet for too long can also cause numbness and tingling in the legs and feet. This happens because the pressure on the nerves in the lower back and legs is increased, leading to reduced blood flow and nerve function. Over time, this can cause permanent nerve damage, which can be difficult to reverse.
Constipation:
Sitting on the toilet for too long can also lead to constipation. Constipation occurs when the colon absorbs too much water from the stool, making it difficult to pass. Prolonged sitting on the toilet can cause the muscles in the rectum to relax, which can make it harder to pass stool. This can lead to constipation, which can be uncomfortable and may require medical treatment.
Increased Risk of Colon Cancer:
Recent studies have found that prolonged sitting on the toilet can increase your risk of developing colon cancer. This is because sitting on the toilet for too long can lead to a buildup of toxic waste products in the colon, which can cause inflammation and damage to the colon's lining. Over time, this damage can increase the risk of developing colon cancer.
Preventing the Dangers of Prolonged Sitting on the Toilet:
To prevent the dangers of prolonged sitting on the toilet, it is important to follow some simple guidelines. Firstly, try to limit your time on the toilet to no more than 10-15 minutes at a time. If you find yourself sitting on the toilet for longer than this, try to stand up and walk around for a few minutes before returning to the toilet. This will help to reduce the pressure on your rectum and lower back.
Additionally, make sure you maintain good toilet posture. When you sit on the toilet, your feet should be placed flat on the floor, and your knees should be slightly higher than your hips. This will help to reduce the pressure on your rectum and lower back.