Spending too much time in the bathroom can be dangerous!

There you are, comfortable on the throne, unaware that you could be playing with fire. Yes! Believe it or not, this seemingly harmless habit could be a direct ticket to a club of health problems that no one wants to visit.

Health specialists point out that spending too much time on the toilet can have not-so-pleasant consequences. Among the unwanted guests at this party are hemorrhoids and the weakening of pelvic muscles.

Those muscles, which are supposed to be firmer than a guitar string, can start to weaken if you don't take good care of them. Who would have thought that such a personal moment could turn into a medical drama?

The throne, gravity, and your blood vessels

Let me share a secret with you: the toilet seat is not like any ordinary chair. The position we adopt there is not the kindest to our body. Gravity plays its role, exerting pressure on the blood vessels in the anorectal area.

Imagine a valve that only allows water to flow in one direction. Thus, blood flows to the area, but it doesn't exit easily. The result: swollen blood vessels and the risk of hemorrhoids skyrockets.

Additionally, the posture on the toilet keeps the pelvic floor tense. If this is not corrected, you could face a rectal prolapse.

What is that? Basically, it's when the intestine decides it wants to see the outside world more than it should. It doesn't sound fun, does it?

Steps to Avoid a Bathroom Disaster

What is the best way to dodge these discomforts? Limit your time on the toilet. Say goodbye to distractions! Phones, books, and magazines are enemies of a quick escape. Enter the bathroom with no expectations of living there. Make the bathroom a boring place. If you don't keep yourself entertained, you won't want to stay too long.

Diet and exercise are also your allies in this crusade. Fiber and water are like the dynamic duo of intestinal transit. The National Academy of Medicine in the United States suggests drinking between 2.7 and 3.7 liters of water a day. And when it comes to fiber, get creative with fruits and vegetables! Additionally, a daily walk might be just what you need to keep everything moving.

When the Bathroom Becomes a Symptom

If prolonged time in the bathroom becomes a routine, it could be more than just a simple habit. It could signal a more serious health problem. From chronic constipation to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease, it is crucial to pay attention to these signs.

The American Cancer Society has observed an increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses among individuals under 55 since the 90s. The message is clear: do not ignore the symptoms. If you experience constipation or need to stay in the bathroom longer than usual for more than three weeks, see a doctor.

Early diagnosis could be the key to successful treatment. So, why not do your body a favor and keep bathroom visits short and healthy?