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Doctors determine a worrying new ‘bathroom bum’ situation and social media is responsible

Doctor’s have identified a worrying new condition – bog bum.

Quacks have found that scrolling social media while spending a penny is leading to severe cases of haemorrhoids.

Now they are taking to TikTok to drive the message home that users should be like the SAS when going to the toilet – getting in and out fast.

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Gastroenterologist Dr David Schwarzbaum said users should use the ten to 15 minute rule. He said: “One common cause of haemorrhoids is due to sitting on the toilet for a prolonged time.



Stock image of a person on the toilet on their phone
Bog bum is when you sit for too long on the can, possibly scrolling through social media

“This is because when one’s bottom is in the space of the toilet seat, the blood will pool in the lowest point and cause increased pressure in the blood vessels in the anus, leading to haemorrhoids.

“I would generally recommend trying to limit bowel movements to 10-15 minutes at most to reduce the risk of haemorrhoids.

“I also counsel them to avoid scrolling on phones or reading for prolonged periods on the toilet. If you need a break from the rest of the world, sit on top of the toilet seat.”

TikTok’s Dr Joe has taken to the social media platform to tell them that using the site often leads to people spending more time on the throne leading to TikTok Tush. His post has been viewed 11.4 million times.



Stock image of a person on the toilet on their phone
It’s advised people should just do their business and leave, and not use the toilet as a break time spot

He said: “I tell my patients that prolonged sitting on the toilet causes blood to pool in your anal veins which may cause haemorrhoids to form, so you’re best to not spend time sitting and scrolling.”

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus that can lead to pain, itching, and bleeding. In serious cases they require medical attention and even surgery. They were once caused by too much straining but now doctors say, the advent of mobile phones has seen cases soar.

Listeners to John Robins on his Radio 5 Live show and hit podcast have heard how he has been bed ridden since having surgery this month to remove them.



Stock image of a person on the toilet on their phone
The longer you sit on the toilet, the greater the haemorrhoid risk is

Los Angeles surgeon Dr Karen Zaghiyan said the ten minute rule was too long.

She said: “People spend way too much time on the toilet. A lot of people make it a habit of reading their emails or watching TikTok or Instagram while they’re on the pot.

“Really minimising your toilet time to less than five minutes allows you to go, empty, get up and move on with your day.”

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