Impact of Cold Weather and Diet on Urinary Health
As winter approaches and temperatures drop, indulging in a warm, spicy meal like hot pot with friends can sound delightful. However, urinary health experts warn that such indulgences, especially accompanied by alcohol, can lead to discomfort and symptoms such as urgency and a heavy feeling in the lower abdomen. Many men visiting the clinic report experiencing acute prostatitis, contributing to their urinary issues.
Causes of Urinary Problems in Winter
Urology specialists identify several reasons why urinary problems are more prevalent during the colder months:
1. Temperature Drops and Lack of Warmth
The drop in temperature can affect many men who do not pay attention to staying warm. The cold can lead to conditions like acute prostatitis, which subsequently causes urinary abnormalities. Conditions affecting the reproductive and urinary systems, such as prostatitis, seminal vesiculitis, and urethritis, often emerge when a person's physical and mental health is compromised.
2. Sedentary Lifestyle
In winter, many men tend to reduce outdoor activities and exercise, often remaining sedentary indoors. This prolonged sitting can create pressure on the prostate, leading to congestion and swelling. This is particularly common among office workers, as the nature of their jobs may exacerbate these issues.
3. Spicy Foods and Alcohol
Enjoying a spicy hot pot while drinking can be tempting, but it is important to note that ingredients like chili, scallions, garlic, pepper, and alcohol can cause blood vessel dilation and congestion in the organs. Continuous dilation of blood vessels can impair the prostate, eventually resulting in prostatitis and urinary difficulties.
Individualized Treatment for Prostatitis
Individuals experiencing prostatitis often report similar symptoms, yet the condition can vary from person to person. Experts emphasize that treatments should be tailored based on the specific nature of the condition. Ineffective treatment not only wastes time and resources but may also worsen the condition. Thus, an individualized approach is crucial for effective recovery, ensuring that the right diagnosis leads to the correct treatment.
Prevention and Management of Urinary Issues
To prevent urinary problems during winter, experts advise men to prioritize warmth, as cold temperatures increase the excitability of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to prostate gland contractions and vascular congestion. It is also essential to avoid prolonged sitting. Instead of spending hours engaged in sedentary activities indoors, take regular breaks to stand and stretch, which can help relieve pressure on the prostate.
Furthermore, for older men, increased frequency of urination or the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying could signify early signs of prostate enlargement. Typically, the frequency of nighttime urination correlates with the severity of prostate enlargement. Increased urination can disrupt sleep, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses like colds and falls.
Therefore, experts strongly recommend that men experiencing symptoms such as urgency, frequency, or incomplete urination seek professional medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to avoid complications and ensure better urinary health.