Several urological problems are common today. However, that doesn’t make them familiar to the average person. Here, we discuss one of them, prostatitis, a problem that affects millions of men each year.
Prostatitis, simply put, is inflammation of the prostate. This inflammation can result from infection or trauma. Bacterial prostatitis is an infection that develops when bacteria in urine leak to the prostate. Traumatic prostatitis isn’t as dramatic as it may sound. This type of inflammation could result from some type of prostate surgery or even from frequently lifting heavy objects, especially if this is done with a full bladder. It is important to understand the cause of prostatitis because this will guide the treatment that a doctor develops. But first, it is necessary to be aware of the signs of inflammation in the prostate.
Symptoms of Prostatitis
The signs of prostatitis can be so subtle that a man does not notice them. This may not be extremely problematic. Some cases of prostatitis do clear up on their own without medical treatment. However, it is necessary to know when to see a doctor. The symptoms of prostatitis can occur quickly or over time. They may be subtle or more severe. And they also may go away on their own, but don’t always. Symptoms that require a medical examination include:
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Frequent need to urinate, even through the night
- Urgent need to urinate
- Cloudy urine
- Urine that is darker than normal, indicating blood
- Pain in the low back, groin, or abdomen
- Painful ejaculation or ejaculation disorders
- Pain in the penis or testicles
While not all men need treatment for the symptoms of prostatitis, a medical examination is warranted. This enables a doctor to understand what has caused the inflammation and address it medically if necessary. Without treatment, prostatitis could lead to additional concerns, such as infection in the blood, an abscess in the prostate gland, and even fertility issues. Studies do not indicate that prostatitis could lead to prostate cancer.
How is Prostatitis Treated?
If a medical exam identifies infection as the cause of prostatitis, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. In severe cases, patients sometimes need IV antibiotics to begin to resolve infection more quickly. Pain relievers and alpha-blockers, which relax the muscles near the prostate, may also be prescribed. With or without medication, men may also be advised to avoid alcohol and smoking and to take warm baths to soothe muscle tension in the lower abdomen and pelvic floor.
