Prostatitis is a common condition that affects the prostate gland in men. The prostate is a small gland that helps make semen. Many men experience prostatitis at some point in their lives. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that prostatitis is one of the most frequent prostate problems in men under 50. Because prostatitis can cause pain and other symptoms, it is important to understand what it is, how it happens, and how it can be treated.
What is Prostatitis?
Prostatitis means swelling or inflammation of the prostate gland. This gland sits just below the bladder and surrounds part of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body. There are different types of prostatitis. Some types happen suddenly, while others last a long time. For example, acute prostatitis comes on quickly and can cause severe symptoms. On the other hand, chronic prostatitis lasts for months and may cause milder symptoms. Although prostatitis is not cancer, it can still affect your quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Prostatitis
Prostatitis symptoms can vary from person to person. However, some signs are more common. If you notice any of these, it is wise to talk to your doctor:
Sometimes, symptoms are mild and come and go. But in other cases, they can be severe and sudden. For this reason, it is important not to ignore any changes.
Causes and Risk Factors
There are several causes of prostatitis. Sometimes, bacteria cause an infection in the prostate. This is called bacterial prostatitis. Other times, no bacteria are found, and the cause is less clear. This is known as chronic prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Although the exact reasons are not always known, certain factors can raise your risk:
Moreover, men of any age can get prostatitis, but it is more common in men under 50. Chronic prostatitis causes can be hard to pinpoint, but ongoing stress or past infections may play a role.
How Prostatitis is Diagnosed
Doctors use several steps to diagnose prostatitis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may do a physical exam, which often includes a digital rectal exam to check the prostate. In addition, your doctor may order tests such as:
Because symptoms can be similar to other prostate problems, these tests help rule out other conditions. Early diagnosis can lead to better treatment results.
Treatment Options for Prostatitis
Treatment for prostatitis depends on the type and cause. For bacterial prostatitis, doctors usually prescribe antibiotics. You may need to take them for several weeks. If you have chronic prostatitis, treatment may include:
Sometimes, symptoms return even after treatment. In these cases, your doctor may suggest other options. It is important to finish all medicines as prescribed, even if you feel better.
Lifestyle Tips and Prevention
Although not all cases can be prevented, some lifestyle changes may help reduce your risk. For example, you can:
Additionally, regular check-ups with your doctor can help catch problems early. If you notice any new symptoms, seek medical advice right away.
In summary, prostatitis is a common and treatable condition. Early diagnosis and proper care can help you feel better and prevent complications. Consult a urologist for personalized advice on prostatitis.