Prostatitis
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland commonly resulting in pain and swelling. The prostate is a reproductive gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The condition of prostatitis can also cause other uncomfortable urinary symptoms which can be chronic or acute, and flare-up irregularly.
Causes of Prostatitis
Most acute cases are caused by an infection of the prostate, while chronic cases do not usually have one clear cause, but may be the result of:
- Bacterial infections
- Traumatic injury
- Previous procedures inserting a catheter into the urethra
- Sexually transmitted diseases
Some men may also inherit certain genes that put them at a higher risk for developing prostatitis. This condition is most common in young and middle-aged men.
Symptoms of Prostatitis
Symptoms of prostatitis are similar to other types of infections within the urinary tract. Common symptoms of prostatitis may be:
- Difficulty and pain while urinating
- Urinary tract infections
- Fever
- Groin pain
- Lower back pain
- Sexual dysfunction
Diagnosis of Prostatitis
Diagnosis may involve ruling out the possibility of other conditions. To diagnose prostatitis, the following tests may be performed:
- Urinalysis
- Testing of prostate fluids/semen
- Digital rectal exam
- Cystoscopy
- Prostate specific antigen test or PSA
Types of Prostate Infections
After diagnosis, prostatitis may be categorized in the following ways.
Acute Bacterial Prostatitis
Acute bacterial prostatitis is a bacterial infection of the prostate. Symptoms such as fever, urinary discomfort and pain, may appear immediately.
Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis
Chronic bacterial prostatitis is a bacterial infection with symptoms that are less severe and show gradually. Recurring urinary tract infections may be a sign of this type of prostatitis
Nonbacterial Prostatitis
Nonbacterial prostatitis is the most common type of prostatitis and it may be caused by persistent inflammation or infection. Symptoms may include urinary pain or discomfort or there may be no symptoms at all.
Treatment of Prostatitis
Treatment for prostatitis depends on the cause and specific type of the condition, and may include:
- Antibiotics for infection
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Hot baths
- Prostatic massage
If left untreated, prostatitis can lead to abnormal semen and infertility, and can seriously affect a patient's quality life. While prostatitis can be a distressing condition, it is treatable and if diagnosed correctly, patients can find relief from treatment.