5 Health Risks from the Habit of Using Phones in the Toilet, What You Need to Know?

Kapanlagi.com - Who has never brought their phone while having a bowel movement (BM)? This habit has become commonplace, especially among young people who often feel the need to stay connected to the outside world even during such personal moments. With easy access to social media, news, and entertainment, the phone has become a loyal companion accompanying us in every activity, including when we are in the toilet.

However, despite seeming trivial, using a phone in the toilet can pose various health risks that are often overlooked. This habit not only has the potential to disrupt physical health but can also affect the hygiene and mental health of the user. From the risk of infections to posture problems, the negative impacts of using a phone in the toilet are quite diverse.

Therefore, it is important for us to be aware of the consequences of this habit and consider reducing the time spent with phones while in the toilet. Here are some negative impacts that can arise from using a phone in the toilet, as reported by Times of India and published by Kapanlagi.com on Tuesday (19/11).

1. Increasing Exposure to Germs

Bathrooms, although they may look clean, can actually be breeding grounds for bacteria and germs, and our phones are not exempt from this threat of microorganisms. When we use our phones in the toilet, the risk of transferring bacteria from our hands to the device's screen increases, creating a lurking potential for infection. Therefore, it is important to regularly sanitize our phones and maintain hand hygiene to protect ourselves. However, that's not all; the blue light emitted by phone screens can also strain our eyes, especially when used in dim lighting in the bathroom. Using a phone before bed can disrupt melatonin production, throwing off our sleep patterns. So, let's be wise in using our phones for the sake of our health and comfort!

2. Can Expose You to Deadly Bacteria

Did you know that sitting on the toilet while engrossed in your phone can backfire on your health? The toilet seat is actually a breeding ground for deadly germs! While playing with our phones, our germ-laden hands can easily transfer bacteria to our mouths, eyes, and noses. Reports indicate that germs can survive on phone screens for up to 28 days! Dr. Hugh Hayden, an infection control specialist, revealed that smartphones can carry ten times more germs than a toilet seat. He even referred to phone screens as the 'mosquitoes of the digital age' that can transmit diseases. When we touch contaminated surfaces and then use our phones, we unknowingly create a risk of cross-contamination. Among the germs lurking on toilet seats, there is Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause urinary tract infections, as well as E. coli, Enterococcus, salmonella, shigella, and campylobacter that are also lurking. So, think twice before bringing your phone to the toilet!

3. Poor Posture and Musculoskeletal Problems

Spending too much time with a phone in hand while in the toilet can lead to poor posture. The habit of slouching while using a phone can impact our spinal health.

In the long term, this can trigger painful neck and back pain. Tension on the muscles and spine not only makes us feel uncomfortable but can also potentially lead to chronic issues.

4. Increased Risk of Hemorrhoids

Sitting too long on the toilet, especially while engrossed in scrolling, can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Straining during bowel movements is a common cause of hemorrhoids, and if we spend too much time in the toilet, the pressure on the blood vessels in the anal area increases.

The combination of sitting too long and lack of discipline in phone usage can put us at risk of experiencing this painful and uncomfortable condition.

5. Disrupted Blood Circulation

Sitting for long periods not only disrupts comfort but also blood circulation, especially in the legs. This can lead to serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or worsen existing circulation problems. When you remain inactive and get trapped in the digital world in the bathroom, blood flow is hindered, which can be dangerous for our vascular health.

So, while taking your phone to the bathroom may seem enjoyable, it is important to be aware of the lurking health risks. Let’s be wiser in using our time in the bathroom for the sake of our body’s health!

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(kpl/rao)