The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped organ in the male body that is located around the urethra and produces seminal fluid.
There are two main types of prostatitis: bacterial and non-bacterial prostatitis. In bacterial prostatitis, bacteria enter the prostate gland and cause an infection. In non-bacterial prostatitis, however, there is no detectable bacterial infection, but the person still has pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of prostatitis include pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, urethra, groin or scrotum, as well as frequent urination, painful or burning urination, bloody urine or other problems with urination. Symptoms of the disease are usually mild to moderate, but can be uncomfortable and disturbing for the person affected.
Diagnosis of prostatitis usually involves a physical examination, laboratory tests and imaging tests such as ultrasound.
Treatment for prostatitis usually involves antibiotics, painkillers, anti-inflammatories and other medicines.
The type of treatment depends on the type and severity of the prostatitis.
Bacterial prostatitis is treated with antibiotics to help the person’s body get rid of the bacteria that caused the inflammation. Treatment usually needs to continue for at least 2 to 4 weeks to ensure a full recovery.
However, the treatment of non-bacterial prostatitis is often more complex and may involve dietary changes, the use of painkillers, anti-inflammatory and other medicines, and lifestyle changes. For example, the person should avoid a sedentary lifestyle, alcohol, sweets and sweet drinks, and exercise more.
Other treatments used to relieve the symptoms of prostatitis include the application of hot or cold compresses to the pelvic area, strengthening of the pelvic floor muscles, massage and acupuncture.
In some cases, if the symptoms are very severe or persist for a long time, the doctor may give an injection into the prostate to relieve the inflammation and pain. However, if the treatments are not effective or if the person develops serious complications, such as urinary retention or suspected prostate cancer, surgery may be needed.
