(Image source from: Canva.com)

Scrolling on mobile devices while using the restroom has emerged as a common morning ritual for many. Unfortunately, this habit is raising significant health issues globally. Experts in the medical field are warning about a troubling rise in the incidence of hemorrhoids and anal fistulas in adults, linking these conditions to prolonged periods spent seated on toilets engaged with smartphones. Dr. Jignesh Gandhi, an experienced robotic and laparoscopic surgeon from Gleneagles in Mumbai, brought attention to the matter at the 74th Foundation Day of the ESIC Hospital in Okhla. He underscored the influence of lifestyle practices and the excessive use of phones in bathrooms.

At ESIC Hospital alone, over 500 cases related to hemorrhoids and fistulas were documented within a single year, as pointed out by Dr. Ravi Ranjan, a specialist in surgery. He indicated that suboptimal lifestyle choices such as inadequate hydration, consumption of fast food, and prolonged time spent on toilets while using mobile phones are significant contributors. According to Dr. Birbal from Marengo Asia Hospital, long-lasting constipation stemming from poor dietary habits combined with time spent sitting can initiate a destructive cycle that leads to painful inflammation, ultimately resulting in hemorrhoids and possibly anal fistulas.

Healthcare professionals are advising people to adopt preventive steps like consuming a diet rich in fiber, minimizing time on the toilet, and ensuring proper hydration. It is vital to address these issues promptly to avoid complications such as anal fistulas, which may necessitate surgical intervention if left untreated. The growing number of cases is putting pressure on government healthcare facilities, leading experts to recommend advanced treatment options like radiofrequency ablation of hemorrhoids under local anesthesia, known as Rafaelo.

This procedure, which has received approval from the USFDA, provides benefits including shorter wait times, the ability for same-day discharge, and quicker recovery periods in comparison to traditional techniques. Particularly effective for managing Grade 2 and 3 hemorrhoids, innovative treatments like Rafaelo enable hospitals to serve more patients and reduce surgical backlogs. Dr. Vani Vijay highlighted that radiofrequency treatment offers superior control and improves patient outcomes compared to alternative methods. Through the use of these advanced solutions, surgeons can significantly enhance patient results while relieving the demands on India’s healthcare system. With broader implementation, medical experts believe that a marked impact can be made on patient care, facilitating timely and effective relief for those suffering from these distressing conditions.