Frequent Nighttime Urination or Feeling Incomplete? Beware of Prostate Enlargement After 50—TCM Doctor Shares 5 Relief Tips

The prostate, also known as the prostate gland, is a male-specific organ located at the base of the pelvic cavity, in front of the rectum and below the bladder, surrounding the urethra. It is about the size of a chestnut and weighs approximately 20 grams. As men age, the prostate gradually enlarges—reaching about 25 grams by age 50, and increasing by roughly 6 grams every decade thereafter. This enlargement compresses the urethra from the inside, leading to urinary difficulties such as frequent urination, nocturia (nighttime urination), urgency, a sensation of incomplete emptying, interrupted urine flow, weak stream, or difficulty urinating—collectively known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Men over 40 experiencing these symptoms should suspect BPH.

According to statistics from the National Health Administration, about 50% of men aged 50 show symptoms of prostate enlargement, with prevalence increasing with age. Over 80% of men over 80 suffer from this condition, earning it the nickname 'the longevity disease' due to its strong association with aging.

Self-Assessment Risk Table (Image provided by Ma-Kuang TCM)

Risk Factors for Prostate Enlargement Genetics: If a man’s father had BPH, his son is more likely to develop it. Smoking and alcohol consumption. Obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol. Diet high in red meat, sweets, and fried foods. Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity.

TCM Perspective on Prostate Enlargement The Huangdi Neijing’s Ling Shu – Five Types of Dysuria and Body Fluids states: 'The five types of dysuria result from kidney qi failure,' where 'dysuria' refers to difficulty urinating. The Jin Kui Yao Lue – Chapter on Dysuria notes: 'Difficulty in urination is called dysuria.' In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), prostate enlargement falls under the overlapping categories of 'leng bi' (urinary obstruction) and 'lin zheng' (dysuria). It is generally classified into three main patterns:

1. Damp-Heat Descending Type: Short, dark-colored urine; heavy body sensation; preference for greasy, spicy, or sweet foods. 2. Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis Type: Difficulty urinating, poor urine flow, possibly causing distension or pain in the perineal area; often linked to emotional stress. 3. Spleen-Kidney Deficiency Type: Frequent urination, weak and thin urine stream, frequent nighttime urination; pale complexion, fatigue.

How to Manage and Improve Prostate Enlargement

1. Drink Plenty of Water and Avoid Holding Urine Daily water intake should be calculated as body weight (kg) × 30 cc. For example, a 60 kg person should drink about 1,800 cc. Drink more during the day and reduce intake 3 hours before bedtime. Long-term urine retention can overstretch the bladder, causing loss of muscle elasticity and leading to bladder weakness, which may result in frequent urination or poor urine flow.

2. Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises Weak pelvic floor muscles can contribute to bladder weakness. Practicing Kegel exercises can help improve this condition. To perform, tighten the anal muscles as if holding in urine, hold for 1–3 seconds, then release. Repeat 30–50 times daily. In addition to pelvic floor exercises, engage in moderate-intensity aerobic activity for at least 150 minutes per week.

3. Acupressure

Guan Yuan (CV4): Located three cun (about four finger-widths) below the navel. This point supports prostate health and also benefits bladder function and gastrointestinal discomfort.

San Yin Jiao (SP6): Found three cun (four finger-widths) above the tip of the inner ankle, along the inner edge of the tibia. Beneficial for prostate health, gynecological issues, and urinary-reproductive system imbalances. Pregnant women should avoid strong pressure on this point, as it may trigger uterine contractions and increase miscarriage risk.

Zu San Li (ST36): Located three cun below the lower edge of the kneecap (four finger-widths down), then one cun (thumb width) lateral to the tibia. This point regulates lower abdominal function, improves systemic circulation, and balances endocrine activity. It benefits prostate health and helps relieve urinary and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Apply gentle pressure to each point for 3–5 seconds, repeating 10 cycles daily. A mild sensation of soreness or distension indicates effective stimulation.

(Image provided by Ma-Kuang TCM)

4. Dietary Recommendations Maintain a balanced, light diet. Include the following nutrient-rich foods in moderation:

Zinc-rich foods: Seafood (oysters), nuts (pumpkin seeds), legumes, spinach, bananas, avocados. Selenium-rich foods: Seafood (salmon), eggs, whole grains (oats), garlic, broccoli, mushrooms, tofu. Lycopene-rich foods: Tomatoes, papaya, red bell peppers.

5. If you experience prostate-related symptoms, consult a qualified physician for diagnosis and treatment.

Article reprinted with permission from Ma-Kuang TCM (Original title: Dripping and Incomplete? TCM on Men’s Longevity Concern—Prostate Enlargement). Editor-in-Chief: Wei Fu-Cheng