Sitting Too Long on the Toilet Increases the Risk of Hemorrhoids

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Franky Mainza Zulkarnain, a general surgeon at Pondok Indah-Puri Indah Hospital, revealed that prolonged sitting on the toilet can increase the risk of hemorrhoids. "Many people sit on the toilet for long periods because they're using their cell phones," Franky said on Monday, January 14, 2026.

According to Franky, defecation should be done when the urge arises. Instead of waiting in the toilet for long periods of time, engrossed in their phones until the urge strikes.

In fact, it's not uncommon for people to remain sitting on the toilet even after a bowel movement, simply to continue using their devices.

Another factor that can increase pressure in the anal area, leading to hemorrhoids, is modern lifestyle choices such as the use of sitting toilets. This excess pressure can potentially cause enlarged blood vessels, which ultimately trigger hemorrhoids, a condition characterized by swelling or dilation of the veins around the anus or lower rectum.

This risk is even greater if the stool is hard due to a lack of fiber intake, requiring the body to strain more during a bowel movement.

Franky added that people who rarely move and sit for long periods of time are also at higher risk of developing hemorrhoids. Based on his experience in practice, hemorrhoids are most often seen in patients between the ages of 35 and 50, with a higher prevalence in men, although the condition can also occur at a younger age.

Pregnancy is also a risk factor due to increased pressure within the uterus, which is influenced by the size of the fetus. Meanwhile, being overweight or obese also contributes to increased pressure on the blood vessels in the anal area.

Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching, pain, burning, and even bleeding during bowel movements due to increased pressure. These symptoms can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities, including sitting.

Therefore, Franky urges the public to pay more attention to their diet, especially by increasing fiber intake and avoiding foods that are too spicy or easily cause gas.

He also emphasized that hemorrhoid treatment does not always require invasive medical procedures such as surgery or laser therapy. Generally, doctors will first monitor the patient's condition over a period of time to assess the severity before determining the need for further treatment.

Read: When is the Best Time to Use the Airplane Toilet?

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News