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Sitting on the toilet too long can lead to various health issues.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoidsare swollen veins in the anus or the anus lining and lower rectum.
They occur when there is too much pressure around the anus.
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This often occurs from prolonged sitting, particularly sitting on a toilet seat.
Constipation, straining during bowel movements, and lifting heavy objects also can cause hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoid symptomswill vary based on their location.
Weakened Pelvic Muscles
The pelvic muscles support the bladder, intestines, and, in women, the uterus.
Prolonged sitting on the toilet and straining to pass a bowel movement can weaken pelvic muscles.
When the pelvic muscles become weakened, several symptoms can occur.
Rectal Prolapse
Arectal prolapseis when part of the rectum pushes out of the anus.
It can occur right after a bowel movement before moving back into the anus.
When rectal prolapse is more severe, the rectum may not move back into the anal canal.
This condition is more common in people over 50 years of age, especially women.
However, it can happen to anyone.
One of the primary causes of rectal prolapse is straining to pass a bowel movement.
Other causes include:
Rectal prolapse treatment is based on its severity.
In more severe cases it may require surgery.
One reason is having difficulty passing a bowel movement due to constipation.
Constipationis a health condition marked by having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
The stool also may be dry and hard.
It can be difficult to pass, or it may feel as though not all the stool has passed.
Constipation can usually be treated at home through changes in diet.
It can help to eat foods high infiber, drink plenty of water, and exercise regularly.
Another tip is to use a footstool when having a bowel movement, which raises the knees.
Doing so can help relax the muscles and make bowel movements easier.
This will help prevent constipation and make bowel movements easier to pass.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Digestive health is an important part of overall health.
If you are constipated and cannot get relieve with home treatment, contact ahealthcare provider.
Also speak to your provider if you suspect you havehemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, or weakened pelvic muscles.
But that extra time can cause serious health concerns.
The pressure on the anus can cause hemorrhoids, weaken the pelvic muscles, or cause a rectal prolapse.
Some people may spend more time on the toilet because they are constipated.
If that is the case, try eating extra fiber and drinking more fluids.
If it is not resolved, contact a healthcare provider.
Continence Foundation of Australia.Pelvic floor muscles.
National Institute of Health.What are the symptoms of pelvic floor disorders (PFD)?
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Rectal prolapse.
National Institutes of Health.Constipation.
