Rectum damage: How sitting too long on the toilet can cause serious issues
You might be surprised to learn that a common habit can lead to a serious medical condition where the rectum protrudes from the body. This happened to a man in China due to a routine mistake many people make every day.
What Happened?
The man, who often played video games on his phone while sitting on the toilet for at least 30 minutes daily, experienced a severe medical emergency one night. During defecation, his rectum prolapsed, protruding approximately six inches from his body. He was immediately taken to the hospital for treatment.
Why Did This Occur?
Doctors explained that the man’s prolonged sitting had weakened his pelvic muscles over time. He was diagnosed with rectal prolapse, a condition in which part of the rectum slips out of its normal position and can even turn inside out. Medical professionals noted that he had a history of rectal prolapse since childhood that had never been treated, and prolonged toilet sitting worsened the condition.
Risks of Using Your Phone on the Toilet
Excessive time spent on the toilet can have long-term health consequences, including:
- Hemorrhoids: Extended sitting can strain the veins lining the anus, causing swelling, pain, and bleeding.
- Pelvic Muscle Weakness: Long periods on the toilet can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, leading to constipation, stool or urine leakage, and pain during urination.
- Rectal Prolapse: In severe cases, part of the rectum can protrude outside the body, and the intestines may begin turning outward.
Takeaway: Sitting for long periods on the toilet—especially while distracted by phones or other activities, can seriously impact your digestive and pelvic health.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional for medical advice and proper diagnosis.