What are the symptoms of damp-heat in men?

Generally, damp-heat in men is a bodily imbalance caused by the accumulation of dampness and heat pathogens inside the body. Common symptoms mainly include skin abnormalities, a sticky sensation in the mouth, abnormal urination, sticky bowel movements, and discomfort in the reproductive system. A detailed breakdown is as follows:

1. Skin Abnormalities: When internal damp-heat is severe, men's skin tends to produce excess oil, develop acne or pimples, and some individuals may experience redness, itching, or even eczema. Discomfort worsens during hot weather or after sweating, and skin issues tend to recur and are difficult to resolve.

2. Sticky Mouth: A sticky sensation often exists in the mouth, especially noticeable upon waking, accompanied by a bitter taste and bad breath. The discomfort is difficult to relieve quickly even after brushing teeth and rinsing the mouth. Tongue coating appears thick and sticky, usually yellowish or white and greasy, with observable abnormalities on the tongue.

3. Abnormal Urination: Damp-heat descending affects the urinary system, causing yellow-colored urine with reduced volume, and a burning sensation or difficulty during urination. Some individuals may experience frequent urination with small volumes, and symptoms become more pronounced when water intake is insufficient or after consuming spicy foods.

4. Sticky Bowel Movements: Damp-heat disrupts intestinal function, resulting in sticky and unsatisfactory bowel movements. Stool tends to stick to the toilet bowl and is difficult to flush after defecation. This may also be accompanied by irregular bowel habits, bloating, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation even with daily bowel movements.

5. Discomfort in the Reproductive System: Damp-heat easily invades the reproductive system, causing dampness and itching in the scrotum. Some individuals may feel a heaviness or discomfort in the perineal area. When symptoms are severe, normal function of the reproductive system may be affected, requiring timely attention.

If men experience the above symptoms, they should adjust their lifestyle habits by reducing consumption of spicy, greasy, and cold foods, and eating more light and easily digestible foods such as wax gourd (winter melon), coix seed (Job's tears), and mung beans. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding staying up late, and engaging in appropriate exercise can help expel damp-heat through perspiration and promote the body's restoration of balance.