Bringing your phone to the bathroom with you while you do your business may seem like a great way to get updated with current affairs.

But prolonged sitting on the toilet could put you at risk of developing haemorrhoids.

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are lumps inside and around your bottom, and they can cause some uncomfortable symptoms.

As well as having blood after you poo, symptoms can include an itchy bottom, feeling like you still need to poo after going to the toilet, and pain around the anus.

US-based gastroenterologist Dr Joseph Salhab issued the warning on his TikTok account.

He shared a story of a girl whose mum had to have haemorrhoid surgery.

She said: “If you go and take a number two and you bring your phone with you, you’re sitting there for so long, you need to stop doing that.

“My mum just had haemorrhoid surgery. Mum has been having trouble going. She’s always in the bathroom for like 30 minutes

“That’s because she’s been sitting on the toilet for so long to try to go.”

Dr Joseph Salhab responded: “So this is absolutely true. Straining and prolonged sitting when you’re trying to use the restroom puts you at risk for developing haemorrhoids which can be painful and bleed.”

To avoid this, Dr Salhab recommended the following:

First, increase your fibre

He said: “Fruits that can help stimulate bowel movements include things like kiwi fruit, dragon fruit, apples, pears, prunes. And the vitamin C helps as well.”

Supplement

You can always supplement fibre with psyllium husk and add it to your favourite drink, said Dr Salhab.

He added: “You can supplement with things like magnesium, such as magnesium oxide or magnesium citrate, which can help stimulate bowel movements as well.”

Drink water

Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day, said the stomach doctor, because water and fibre go together.

Don’t avoid going to the toilet

When you have to use the restroom, try to find a way to go, said Dr Salhab. Don’t avoid it.

Limit your phone use

Definitely try to limit your phone use while you’re using the bathroom to avoid prolonged sitting, he advised.

Use a stepping stool

Dr Salhab recommended using a stepping stool when you go to the toilet. He explained: “When you raise your feet it allows easier passage of stool which is really beneficial.”