Prostatitis

The prostrate gland is an important organ in a man?s body which produces semen, the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Its inflammation is called prostatitis with numerous symptoms including frequent urination and pain or burning while urinating.

There are different forms of prostatitis where the least common type is the most acute where hospitalization may be required. Prostatitis cannot be generally cured; however relief can be brought to its various symptoms. In acute bacterial prostatitis, one develops fever and chills suddenly, and develops painful ejaculation with urinary problems.

In chronic bacterial prostatitis, its symptoms develop slowly and are not as severe as acute prostatitis. Excessive urination at night, frequent urination, blood in urine or semen, pain in the lower back and painful ejaculation are some of its prominent symptoms. The most common form of prostatitis is chronic nonbacterial prostates where it has similar symptoms to chronic bacterial prostatitis. However, tests done here don?t detect any bacteria in the urine or fluid in the prostate gland. There may also be pus cells present at times.

Bacteria are usually the cause for acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis. However, in chronic nonbacterial prostates, there are several theories to possible triggers for it. These conditions are lifting heavy objects on a full bladder, regular jogging or biking, occupations where the prostate is subjected to strong vibrations like driving a truck and the operation of heavy machinery and spasms of the pelvic muscle.

Prostatitis usually occurs in old men; but can be developed in young men who have had a bladder infection, used a urinary catheter, certain jobs, jogging or bicycling and stopping and starting when urinating. Prostatitis is diagnosed by first eliminating other possible conditions with similar symptoms and determining the type of prostatitis you may have. This is done with a medical history and physical exam with a digital rectal exam. Sometimes, the doctor may also test urine and semen samples for bacteria and white blood cells.

The treatment for prostatitis depends on the type of prostatitis you have and generally includes antibiotics for infections, alpha blockers to relax the bladder neck, pain relievers for pain relief and muscle relaxants to cure spasms. With the help of physical therapy like exercise and biofeedback, tight muscles are relaxed. Sitz baths are also effective as these warm baths relieve pain while relaxing lower abdominal muscles.

Surgery may be resorted to if antibiotics don?t help open blocked ducts or if fertility is affected. However, surgery is not used for treating nonbacterial prostatitis. Sometimes, changes in lifestyles also help control prostatitis. This includes limiting of alcohol, spicy foods and caffeine, regular sex, drinking lots of water and urinating regularly. If cycling, it is better to use a ?split? seat as the pressure on the prostate is reduced. These changes bring considerable relief to those suffering from prostatitis.