[Hinews] While many link prostate problems to winter’s chill, data from South Korea’s Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service tells a different story: acute prostatitis cases surge in summer. Over the past five years, July has seen an average 7.4% increase in diagnoses compared to June, with August consistently recording the highest numbers.

Why is summer so problematic? Dr. Jang-hee Lee, a urologist at Incheon Himchan General Hospital, points to a combination of factors: “Hot weather causes dehydration, while prolonged exposure to cold environments or frequent intake of chilled foods can constrict pelvic blood vessels, impairing prostate circulation and function.” These conditions can aggravate urinary symptoms and prostate inflammation.

Three Summer Risks to Prostate Health: Dehydration, Infection, and Cold Exposure

Several factors make summer a perilous season for prostate health. First, dehydration. High temperatures drive excessive sweating, lowering bodily fluids and concentrating urine. This concentrated urine irritates the urinary tract, potentially causing inflammation in both the bladder and prostate. Elevated levels of calcium, uric acid, and salts in urine also increase the risk of urinary tract or prostate stones.

Second, bacterial infections thrive in summer’s heat and humidity, which create a moist environment around the genitals, encouraging bacterial growth. Bacteria from the urethra or anus can migrate to the prostate, triggering inflammation. For those with prior prostatitis, summer’s toll on immunity heightens the chance of symptom recurrence or worsening.
Finally, prolonged exposure to air conditioning reduces pelvic blood flow and causes muscle contraction, disrupting prostate and bladder function. This can manifest as weak urine flow, painful urination, residual urine sensation, or frequent urination. For men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, cold-induced circulatory changes can worsen urethral compression, intensifying urination difficulties.

Excessive heat, dehydration, and prolonged air conditioning during summer can strain the prostate, leading to inflammation and urinary problems. (Image: ClipArtKorea)
Excessive heat, dehydration, and prolonged air conditioning during summer can strain the prostate, leading to inflammation and urinary problems. (Image: ClipArtKorea)


Practical Steps to Safeguard Prostate Health in Summer

To protect prostate health during warmer months, consider these recommendations:

  1. Hydrate Wisely
    Drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily, but reduce intake two hours before bedtime to minimize nighttime urination (nocturia). Avoid diuretic drinks such as coffee, alcohol, and caffeinated or sugary carbonated beverages.

  2. Limit Cold Air Exposure
    Maintain indoor-outdoor temperature differences within 5–6°C and protect the lower body from direct air conditioning. Extended cold exposure to the pelvic area can reduce blood flow, triggering inflammation.

  3. Stay Active
    Prolonged sitting compresses the pelvis and prostate. Stand, stretch, or walk briefly every hour to boost pelvic blood circulation.

  4. Use Warm Sitz Baths and Maintain Underwear Hygiene
    A warm sitz bath for 10–15 minutes improves pelvic blood flow and relieves discomfort. Wear breathable cotton underwear and change frequently to curb bacterial growth.

  5. Seek Early Medical Care
    Burning during urination, a persistent feeling of incomplete emptying, frequent nighttime urination, reduced libido, or ongoing fatigue may signal prostate problems. Consult a urologist promptly to pinpoint the cause and prevent complications.

Expert Guidance for Lasting Prostate Health

Dr. Lee stresses the need for vigilance: “Prostate symptoms in summer can easily recur or become chronic. Healthy habits and timely medical intervention are the best defenses against long-term problems.”

By recognizing summer’s unique risks and adopting proactive strategies, men can maintain prostate health throughout the year.

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