When prostatitis is mentioned, it often evokes feelings of panic and misunderstandings among adult men. Common misconceptions include associating frequent urination, urgency, and incomplete emptying with prostatitis, believing that abstaining from sexual activity is necessary, and fearing that prostatitis can lead to infertility. But is prostatitis really as terrifying as it seems? Let's delve into this topic today.
Understanding Prostatitis
Prostatitis is a prostate disease caused by various complex reasons. Its symptoms often manifest as lower urinary tract symptoms, including frequent urination, urgency, painful urination, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, painful swelling, discomfort in the pelvic area, and more. Some may also experience fatigue, memory issues, and sexual function abnormalities such as impotence or premature ejaculation. It's worth noting that prostatitis is one of the common diseases in adult men, with statistics indicating that about 50% of men will be affected by it at some point in their lives.
What Causes Prostatitis?
Prostatitis can be categorized into four major types: acute bacterial, chronic bacterial, chronic non-bacterial, and prostatodynia. Interestingly, over 90% of clinical cases fall under the chronic non-bacterial and prostatodynia categories. Apart from bacterial infections, most cases of prostatitis are attributed to certain lifestyle habits.
4 Habits That Increase the Risk of Prostatitis
1. Unhealthy Sexual Life: Excessive sexual activity or prolonged abstinence can lead to abnormal congestion of the prostate, causing inflammation.
2. Prolonged Sitting: The prostate can be compressed due to prolonged sitting, leading to poor blood circulation and inflammation.
3. Frequent Urine Retention: Holding in urine frequently can cause urine to reflux into the prostate, leading to inflammation.
4. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and alcohol consumption can irritate the prostate, promoting congestion and inflammation.
Dispelling Common Myths About Prostatitis
1. Impact on Sexual Performance: Prostatitis does not necessarily worsen sexual performance. Symptoms such as discomfort during erection can affect sexual capability, but proper treatment can significantly improve these symptoms.
2. Abstinence Requirement: Contrary to popular belief, regular sexual activity can aid in the treatment of chronic prostatitis by promoting the expulsion of prostatic fluid.
3. Infertility Concerns: While severe prostatitis can impact fertility by affecting semen quality, there is limited evidence to suggest that prostatitis leads to infertility.
Prevention and Management
Prostatitis needs treatment. And herbal medicine Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill can be a nice option. Besides, prevention is also important.
Preventing prostatitis involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits, including avoiding prolonged sitting and urine retention, maintaining hydration, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and balancing work and rest. Additionally, two methods can aid in prostate care: anus lifting exercises and warm water sitz baths.
In conclusion, while prostatitis is common, it is both preventable and treatable. Seeking timely medical treatment is crucial if symptoms affect daily life. By understanding prostatitis and dispelling common myths, men can take proactive steps towards maintaining their health and well-being.