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Can Bicycle Riding Cause Prostate Problems

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Biking Does Not Worsen Enlarged Prostate

Is Cycling Bad For Men’s Sexual Health? GCN Talks Bo***cks

Cycling can increase inflammation, but it hasnt been found to worsen the progression of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Cyclists who have an enlarged prostate dont experience worsened symptoms when they ride, but they arent immune from previous symptoms affecting their exercise. The primary symptom that can disrupt a ride is the frequent need to urinate in those suffering from BPH. Talk to your doctor about options for treatment and management.

New And Upcoming Tests For Prostate Cancer

The good news about new and upcoming tests for prostate cancer is that they can tell you more specific information than the PSA test alone.

You and your doctor can use the new urine test for prostate cancer to let you know if you have low-risk or high-risk prostate cancer, and this can help you make more-informed decisions about further testing and treatment. Also, a new genetic test that predicts prostate canceris on the way.

This, too, will allow doctors and patients to learn more about how aggressive their tumors are so they can make the right treatment decisions for them.

Talk to your doctor about your risk factors for prostate cancer. Knowing your risk factors along with your PSA level are some of the first steps in getting on track with your prostate health. Just be sure that you avoid doing any of the activities that can affect your PSA level for the 48 hours leading up to your test, and be aware of the other factors that can affect your PSA.

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An enlarged prostate can also be the cause of other problems. If the enlarged prostate is causing symptoms, the best treatment would be a natural remedy. In the meantime, there are treatments for a wide range of conditions that cause a man to experience pain. A common surgical procedure involves an electric loop, laser, or electro-stimulation. The procedure is a safe and effective option for treating enlarged or symptomatic BPH.

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But Is This A Scientific Fact Or Is It Only An Assumption

Theres a particular link between cycling and prostate health. Some urologic studies show that cyclists have a higher index of sexual health issues. This risk is higher than that of swimmers and runners, for example.

The prostatic disease index, on the other hand, shows no differences. If we take this type of study as an isolated fact, it appears that the prostate is not affected by cycling. But let us review more evidence.

Researchers in the United Kingdom took a sample of more than five thousand cyclists. The study suggests no higher incidence of lower urinary tract problems in this group. However, there was a clear distinction between those who rode for a longer time. 3.5% of cyclists who ride for a long time developed prostate cancer.

In comparison, only 0.5% of the cyclists who ride shorter distances had the same problem. They did notice a higher predisposition to numbness and sores in the perineum area, too.

Tips To Ensure Comfort While Cycling

Are Riding Bicycles Linked to Prostate Problems?

Cyclists often forget that the use of their bicycle has to be adapted to their age and body type. Every rider must consider that cycling may also negatively influence their health beyond all benefits of physical activity.

Bicycle riding is a fantastic way of exercising and prevents many diseases, particularly those of cardiovascular nature. Mountain bike riding is an antidote against obesity. Thats why gyms all over the world have lines and lines with recumbent bikes and upright bikes.

However, the bike has been accused of a long time as the cause of genital numbness, erectile dysfunction, and chronic prostatitis.

The bicycle saddle needs to fit the body of the rider. The best option is to customize your bike, whether you are a prostatic patient or not. It is also important to consider your body movements while cycling. For example:

  • If the saddle nose goes on down inclination, it exerts less pressure to the urogenital area
  • If the bike seat is too high, the compression to the perineum will be proportionally increased
  • The bike saddle should not point too far forward or back
  • The inclination must be right, because most styles run for a horizontal saddle position, while others induce the rider to adopt a more aerodynamic body position.
  • When pedaling, the legs have to execute swift movements, and the push swing is even when the cyclist extends the knee.

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Surgical procedures to remove the diseased prostate are usually necessary. Surgical procedures are not always necessary. If the disease is caused by bacterial infections, a doctor can treat the symptoms using alpha-blockers or surgery. Physical therapy, relaxation exercises, and warm baths are all recommended. A physician may also prescribe antibiotics to cure the infection. A bacterial infection can also cause a recurrence of the condition.

An enlarged prostate can be uncomfortable for both men and women. Some of the symptoms of an enlarged male reproductive organ include a weakened urine stream, urgent need to urinate, and urinary tract infections. BPH can also cause damage to the kidneys. A sudden inability to urinate can be life-threatening, as it can lead to bladder and kidney damage. Unfortunately, most men with enlarged prostrates put up with the symptoms for years before they seek treatment. However, many of the men with symptoms finally decide to go to a doctor for proper gynecological evaluation and to begin enlarged prostatic therapy.

Cycling And Prostate Health

A recent study reported a six times increase in prostate cancer among elite cyclists compared other cyclists. Prof Thomas, a Consultant Oncologist and Exercise Scientist has summarised the evidence for cycling and prostate health and explains why this data should not make men stop cycling provided some simple precautions are considered.

The increase in prostate cancer in men who cycled for > eight was compared with men < 3.75 hours per week not the general public. It is important to realise that people who exercise are x3 less likely to get cancer than the general population. Not surprising as it induces over 180 biochemical changes which protecting our DNA, block cancer growth and spread. These include:

Indirectly mechanisms reduces obesity, increases mood and vitamin D levels.-

Direct mechanisms Improves insulin sensitivity, lowers growth Insulin like Growth Factor increases natural killer cells and lymphocytes, which improve immune recognition of cancer cells reduces markers of inflammation such as prostaglandins.

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Cycling And Prostate Health: Risks And Benefits

How cycling may reduce the risk of prostate cancer:

  • Indirect mechanisms: Reduces obesity, improves psychological health and vitamin D levels
  • Direct mechanisms: Improved insulin sensitivity, lowering growth cytokines such as insulin-like growth factor increases natural killer cells and lymphocytes, which improve immune recognition of cancer cells reduces markers of inflammation such as prostaglandin 2.

How cycling may increase the risk of prostate cancer:

  • Prostatic inflammation: Repetitive compression and trauma to the perineum, leading to recurrent inflammation of the prostate, has been reported to be higher in cyclists. Chronic inflammation is known to be a risk factor for malignancy.
  • Testosterone: Levels increase immediately after intense exercise, which could encourage early prostate cancer cells to grow. This increase, however, occurs only in the first 15-60 minutes and rarely occurs in men over 55 years. Over time, testosterone levels actually drop below normal among elite athletes unless banned anabolic steroids are taken.
  • Generation of free radicals: Strenuous exercise, particularly in untrained people, produces reactive oxidative species that can damage DNA, the first stage in cancer initiation and progression.

Don’t let age slow you down

What You Need To Know About The Prostate Bicycle Riding And Prostate Problems

Can Cycling Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

The main purpose of the prostate is to produce semen, a milky fluid that sperm swims in. During puberty, the body produces semen in a large number of cases, including enlarged prostate. This fluid causes the prostate to swell and cause a number of bladder-related symptoms. This is why the prostate is important to the body. It can be caused by many factors, including infection and inflammation.

A enlarged prostate can also cause blockages in the urethra. A blocked urethra can also damage the kidneys. A patient suffering from an enlargement of the prostate may have pain in his lower abdomen and genitals. If pain is present, a digital rectal examination will reveal hard areas. A doctor may prescribe surgery or perform an endoscopic procedure. If the enlarged prostate is not completely removed, it will shrink.

While the size of an enlarged prostate will influence the extent of urinary symptoms, men may experience a range of urinary symptoms. Some men have minimal or no symptoms at all. Some men will have a very enlarged prostate, whereas others will have a mild enlargement. Generally, the symptoms can stabilize over time. Some men may have an enlarged prostate but not notice it. If they have an enlarged colon, their physician can perform a TURP procedure.

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Mount Up And Be Comfortable

Cycling is part of a healthy lifestyle and you should not let prostate issues keep you from doing it. Get a new saddle to make the ride more comfortable and bearable. Your prostate health, and your overall health, will definitely benefit from your inner Greg LeMond.

Here are some tips when looking for a seat that is designed for anatomic comfort:

  • Get a seat with a hollowed out channel along the length of the bike seat. Research from the British Journal of Urologyin 2006 showed that a hollowed bike seat allows better preservation of the perineum region than a standard seat. With this opening, your weight is only on the pelvis bones, alleviating compression of your goods.”
  • Look at the shape of the saddle tip. A tip that curves downward will improve rideability and prevents uncomfortable pressure on the outer genitals when in a low riding position.
  • Check the saddle’s supporting surfaces. The heavy load on the pelvic bones will be a pain in the butt, so be sure to check the design of the supporting surface of the saddle. Cyclists come in all shapes and sizes, so supporting surfaces come in various shapes designed to adapt to the build and posture of each rider.
  • Erectile Dysfunction In Cyclists

    Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to achieve and maintain a penile erection adequate for satisfactory sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction may have psychogenic causes or organic causes . However, in most patients both factors probably contribute to the failure to achieve an adequate erection.

    In cyclists, a population based study indicated that bicycle riding for more than three hours a week was an independent risk factor for mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. The possible cause relates to compression of the pudendal nerve and arteries while cycling. In a recent review there was thought to be a significant relationship between cycling-induced perineal compression leading to vascular, endothelial, and neurogenic dysfunction in men and the development of ED. Research on female bicyclists is very limited but indicates the same impairment as in male bicyclists. Preventative measures can help prevent impairment of erectile function. Some people say that there is less erectile dysfunction in cyclists as they are physically fitter – which may be true.

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    Practical Implications For Older Cyclists

    Lets just start with a clarification here the fact that PSA levels rose after cycling does NOT mean that cycling increases the risk of prostate cancer. In fact, the consensus of research suggests that men who stay physically fit and keep trim through exercise like cycling are significantly less likely to develop prostate cancer then their sedentary and overweight counterparts. Indeed, a large review study published just last year found that regular, vigorous physical activity reduces the risk of prostate cancer in men. What it does mean though is that theres a temporary increase in levels of PSA .

    Given the raised levels of PSA following a lengthy period of cycling, the clear implication is that cyclists who go for a PSA test should ensure they abstain from cycling beforehand. The authors of the Aussie study above suggest a 24-48 hour period of abstinence prior to a PSA test. Saddles with a cut out to help reduce pressure on the perineum region of the groin may help in this respect by giving the prostate an easier time. However, in order to avoid the possibility of a false high PSA test, its still advisable to refrain from cycling completely before any test!

    References

  • Eur Urol. 2018 Oct 6. pii: S0302-283830730-9
  • What You Need To Know About The Prostate Can Riding A Bicycle Cause Prostate Problems

    Can Bicycle Riding Cause Prostate Problems

    The main purpose of the prostate is to produce semen, a milky fluid that sperm swims in. During puberty, the body produces semen in a large number of cases, including enlarged prostate. This fluid causes the prostate to swell and cause a number of bladder-related symptoms. This is why the prostate is important to the body. It can be caused by many factors, including infection and inflammation.

    A enlarged prostate can also cause blockages in the urethra. A blocked urethra can also damage the kidneys. A patient suffering from an enlargement of the prostate may have pain in his lower abdomen and genitals. If pain is present, a digital rectal examination will reveal hard areas. A doctor may prescribe surgery or perform an endoscopic procedure. If the enlarged prostate is not completely removed, it will shrink.

    While the size of an enlarged prostate will influence the extent of urinary symptoms, men may experience a range of urinary symptoms. Some men have minimal or no symptoms at all. Some men will have a very enlarged prostate, whereas others will have a mild enlargement. Generally, the symptoms can stabilize over time. Some men may have an enlarged prostate but not notice it. If they have an enlarged colon, their physician can perform a TURP procedure.

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    The Initial Causes Bicycle Riding And Prostate Problems

    One of the first symptoms of prostate issues is pain or tenderness in the groin or lower back. This can be the result of a noncancerous condition called enlarged prostatic tissue, or it could be an infection of the bladder. In either case, its important to see a doctor as soon as possible. If youre suffering from prostate pain, you may want to consider reducing your caffeine intake.

    Another symptom of a potentially enlarged prostate is difficulty starting a stream of urine, leaking, or dribbling. These symptoms are not serious, but theyre still alarming. Most men put up with an enlarged prostate for years before seeking medical attention, but they typically seek treatment as soon as they notice symptoms. Even if you dont have symptoms, its worth getting checked to determine if you have any prostate issues.

    If you experience nightly bathroom runs, you may be experiencing an enlarged prostate. You may be having difficulty starting a stream of urine, or you may even be dribbling or leaking during the day. These problems arent life-threatening, but can become a nuisance. You should not ignore these signs and seek treatment as soon as you notice them. If you feel any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

    Blame It On The Bike Seat

    When you sit on a chair, your weight is distributed across both buttocks. This takes pressure off the perineum, a region of the body that runs from the anus to the sex organs. It contains the nerves and arteries that supply the penis in men and the clitoris and labia in women. Sitting on a bicycle seat puts pressure on the perineum, compressing those crucial nerves and arteries. This can lead to loss of sensation and other problems.

    Nerve damage accounts for the penile numbness that some male bikers experience. Pressure on the pudendal artery can add to this nerve injury to produce temporary or prolonged erectile dysfunction. A narrow bike seat can reduce blood flow to the penis by as much as 66%, and even a broad seat may reduce flow by 25%. The same processes account for bicycling-related sexual problems in women.

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    Follow These Testing Guidelines

    As the American Cancer Society points out, PSA testing isnât 100 percent accurate you can have normal results and still have cancer, or have positive results and not have cancer. An elevated PSA level can also indicate that your prostate is inflamed, or it can be a sign of benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, as explained by the Mayo Clinic.

    Following specific guidelines when prepping for a PSA test can contribute to an accurate reading. According to Harvard Health Publishing, you do not need to fast prior to having your blood drawn for this test.

    However, ejaculation can temporarily boost PSA levels, and itâs one of the things to avoid prior to a PSA test. Itâs recommended that testing be performed after at least 48 hours of abstinence.

    Talk to your doctor if you have a urinary tract infection or other urinary issues these conditions can raise PSA levels significantly.

    Although the impact of exercise on PSA levels remains unclear, avoid exercise for at least 24 hours prior to your blood test, and inform your doctor of any recent physical activities that could affect your results.

    How Mens Prostate Health Changes With Age

    How To Fix And Avoid Sore Wrists From Cycling

    This small gland does not remain precisely the same throughout your lifetime. It changes shape, size, and structure many times in each phase of your life and development.

    The formation of the urethral tract in embryos and fetuses has been very clearly detailed. The gland has the dimensions of a bean at birth. It grows a bit afterward, but it is only after puberty that it reaches its definite size.

    Throughout the life of a man, the prostate gland enlarges with age. The first stage of growth starts at puberty. Then, the growing process triggers the second phase of growth, when men turn thirty years old. Prostate tissues during this period also become thicker and lose firmness.

    This is why young males tend to have a firmer and smaller prostate gland. It weighs around 6 grams, depending on the size of the individual. Through the years, it grows heavier, up to 11 grams in 50-year-old males .

    In some cases, the prostate grows as much as to block the flow of urine. This is more common in older adults after age 65 years old. As the prostate surrounds the urethra, the gland clasps and obstructs the urinary system. The first symptom of such a phenomenon is a reduced urine flow.

    However, in this natural flow of events, we also have to mention a few risk factors. They may influence your prostate health and dictate how soon they start showing up.

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