Dr. Manjunath Haridas, a consultant colorectal and gastrointestinal surgeon at Manipal Hospital Whitefield, warns that spending more than 15 minutes daily on the toilet can significantly increase the risk of hemorrhoids and other digestive disorders. This common habit applies excessive pressure on the veins around the rectum and anus, leading to swelling and painful symptoms like itching and bleeding. Modern toilets may contribute to this issue due to their sitting posture, which can strain the rectal area more than squatting. Interestingly, individuals often spend longer on the toilet when constipated, hoping to fully clear their bowels, but this can actually worsen constipation and lead to conditions such as anal fissures and rectal prolapse. To mitigate these risks, Dr. Haridas recommends avoiding phone use while on the toilet, increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity. He advises consulting a doctor if experiencing prolonged toilet visits, pain, or blood during bowel movements, as these may indicate underlying health problems.