Bathroom Breaks Can Be Hazardous to Your Health: Experts Weigh In on the Importance of Limited Toilet Time

A recent warning from health experts has alerted citizens to the potential risks associated with prolonged bathroom breaks. Sitting on the toilet seat for extended periods can lead to serious health issues, including haemorrhoids and weakened pelvic muscles.

According to colorectal surgeon Dr Lai Xue at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, spending too much time on the toilet is often a major factor in bathroom-related complaints among patients. "When patients present to me with complaints, one of the main areas we have to delve deeply into is spending a lot of time on the toilet," he noted.

The seated position on a toilet puts the body at a unique disadvantage, exacerbating issues such as rectal prolapse and haemorrhoids due to gravity's effects. "It becomes a one-way valve where blood enters, but blood really can't go back," Dr Xue explained.

Gastroenterologist Dr Lance Uradomo advised removing distractions during bathroom breaks, suggesting that people keep phones, books, and magazines out of the bathroom to avoid losing track of time. "You don't want to go with the mindset that you will be there for a long time," he said.

For those struggling with regular bowel movements, doctors recommend quitting bathroom sessions after 10 minutes. Gentle movement, proper hydration, and a high-fibre diet can promote regularity without strain. In some cases, extended toilet time may signal underlying health issues such as chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, or Crohn's disease.

"Weakened stools can be a symptom of more serious problems like colon cancer," Dr Uradomo warned. If constipation or long bathroom visits persist for over three weeks, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider immediately.

As the latest public health advisory warns, limiting bathroom time and avoiding distractions are crucial steps toward maintaining good pelvic health.