Are These 10 Habits Putting Your Prostate at Risk?

In today's fast-paced society, men often find themselves under significant pressure from both work and mental stress. This can result in a host of health issues, particularly concerning the prostate, such as prostatitis and premature ejaculation.

A World Health Organization survey revealed that the prevalence of prostatitis in the United States is as high as 8.4%. This means that roughly 1 in every 12 men suffers from this condition. If left untreated, prostatitis can lead to serious complications, including prostate enlargement, infertility, and a marked decrease in quality of life. One effective treatment for prostatitis is the traditional Chinese medicine Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill. It aids in improving urination, alleviating urinary tract symptoms, and eliminating inflammation.

To safeguard your prostate health, it's crucial to be aware of the following 10 bad habits that can be detrimental:

1. Prolonged Compression

Sitting for extended periods or frequently riding a bicycle can lead to prolonged compression of the prostate. This results in poor local blood circulation and passive congestion. The friction from the bicycle saddle can stimulate the urethra and prostate, leading to chronic hyperplasia, hardening, and enlargement of the tissue, and even inflammation. This compression can cause diseases by affecting the urethra and prostate.

2. Frequent Urinary Retention and Delayed Urination

Holding in urine can increase bladder pressure, causing congestion in the genital area. Over time, this can impair the function of the prostate gland and potentially lead to prostatitis. Urinary retention can also cause urine reflux, inducing "chemical prostatitis," where pathogens in the urine lead to bacterial infections.

3. Irregular or Excessive Sexual Activity

Engaging in frequent sexual activities within a short period can increase the risk of acute prostatitis. For those with strong sexual desires who are unable to "release," accumulated prostatic fluid can cause expansion and congestion, triggering inflammation. Similarly, external ejaculation and interrupted sexual activities can lead to congestion and swelling, causing inflammation.

4. Smoking

Smokers have a 1-2 times higher risk of developing prostate diseases compared to non-smokers. The irritants in cigarette smoke can cause congestion and blood vessel dilation in the urethra and prostate, reducing the immune system's ability to fight bacterial infections and increasing the risk of prostatitis.

5. Improper Diet

Consuming spicy and acidic foods frequently, along with long-term alcohol consumption, can lead to blood vessel dilation and congestion, potentially inducing prostatitis. A diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits, like spinach and apples, and moderate meat consumption, such as beef and fish, is recommended.

6. Tight Pants

Wearing tight underwear or pants can restrict blood circulation in the prostate. Not changing underwear regularly or wearing synthetic fibers can lead to pathogen infections. Men should wear loose, comfortable clothing and promptly change underwear to reduce disease risk. Choosing absorbent cotton underwear and avoiding low-quality materials is also essential.

7. Frequent Staying Up Late and Lack of Sleep

Staying up late and not getting enough sleep can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of inflammation. Lack of sleep can over-stimulate the cerebral cortex, leading to hormone imbalances and endocrine disorders, potentially causing prostate enlargement.

8. Frequent High-Pressure States and Lack of Emotional Regulation

Emotional instability and high stress can constrict blood vessels, affecting prostate blood circulation. Long-term poor circulation can lead to ischemia and hypoxia in prostate tissue, inducing diseases. Negative emotions like anxiety and depression can amplify symptom severity, creating a vicious cycle.

9. Lack of Regular Exercise

Insufficient physical activity can impair blood circulation, including to the prostate. Regular aerobic exercises like jogging and swimming improve cardiovascular health, metabolic capacity, and blood circulation, reducing discomfort and promoting prostate health.

10. Neglecting Regular Physical Examinations

Avoiding regular check-ups can prevent early detection of prostate problems, missing optimal treatment windows. Men over 40 should undergo regular examinations to identify symptoms early and obtain timely diagnosis and treatment, minimizing disease impact on health.