Epididymitis: A Sperm Killer—How TCM Can Help? 6 Tips to Avoid It
Epididymitis is one of the common inflammations in the male reproductive system, significantly impacting male reproductive health. It is referred to as a sperm killer because it can interfere with the production and maturation of sperm, affecting the quality and quantity of sperm and thereby reducing male fertility.
Additionally, epididymitis can cause symptoms such as scrotal pain and distention, bringing considerable inconvenience to the patient's life.
According to TCM theory, epididymitis is often caused by external damp heat, liver qi stagnation, and internal blood stasis.
TCM believes that the liver meridian runs through the genital organs. If liver qi stagnates, leading to abnormal dispersion and drainage, or external damp-heat evil invades the liver meridian, it can cause qi and blood stagnation, meridian obstruction, and epididymitis.
TCM conditioning methods:
1. Herbal Treatment
The Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill is commonly used for treating chronic epididymitis. Its effects include clearing heat and detoxifying, promoting blood circulation, removing stasis, and promoting urination to alleviate dribbling. It can effectively relieve the pain and swelling caused by epididymitis, eliminate inflammation, and promote tissue repair.
2. Acupuncture Treatment
Acupuncture regulates the body's qi, blood circulation, and organ functions by stimulating acupoints. For epididymitis patients, commonly used acupoints include Guanyuan, Zhongji, Sanyinjiao, and Yinlingquan. To ensure safety and effectiveness, acupuncture treatment should be performed by a professional acupuncturist.
3. Tui Na Massage
Tui na massage can promote local blood circulation and relieve muscle tension and pain. Gentle massage can be performed on the scrotal area for epididymitis patients, but care must be taken with the pressure and technique to avoid injury.
Follow These 6 Points to Stay Away from Epididymitis
1. Maintain Personal Hygiene
Wash the external genital area daily with warm water, paying particular attention to cleaning the scrotum, penis, and other areas. Thoroughly clean under the foreskin and keep the scrotum clean and dry. Choose loose, breathable cotton underwear and change it frequently to avoid tight-fitting underwear that can cause local heat and moisture.
2. Regular Sexual Life
Maintain a moderate and regular sexual life, avoiding excessive frequency or prolonged abstinence. Excessive sexual activity can keep the genital organs in a prolonged state of congestion, increasing the risk of infection.
In contrast, prolonged abstinence can lead to semen accumulation, which is not conducive to the discharge of inflammatory substances. Moderate and regular sexual activity helps maintain the normal function of the reproductive system.
3. Dietary Adjustment
Reduce the intake of spicy, greasy, and stimulating foods such as chili, fried foods, and coffee. These foods can irritate the genital organs and worsen inflammation. Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, such as watermelon, winter melon, and bitter melon, which have the effects of clearing heat and removing dampness. Keep the diet light and balanced.
4. Avoid Prolonged Sitting
Prolonged sitting can compress the perineum, affect blood circulation in the scrotal area, and make the epididymis prone to congestion. To promote blood circulation, it is recommended to stand up and move around occasionally. For those who need to sit for long periods at work, choose a chair with good support and frequently change sitting positions.
5. Prevent Colds
Upper respiratory tract infections, such as colds, can lead to epididymitis. Adjust clothing according to weather changes to avoid catching a cold. Strengthen exercise to enhance resistance and prevent colds.
6. Actively Treat Other Diseases
If you have prostatitis, urethritis, or other urinary system diseases, timely and standardized treatment is necessary to prevent the spread of inflammation to the epididymis. During treatment, strictly follow the doctor's medication instructions and undergo regular check-ups to ensure complete recovery.
In conclusion, although epididymitis poses significant hazards, it can be effectively prevented and treated through TCM conditioning methods and attention to certain aspects of daily life.
If symptoms of epididymitis appear, seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's guidance for treatment to protect male reproductive health.
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