Treatment of prostatitis

Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland that can occur in either an acute or chronic form. It ranks as the third most common urological condition among men. This condition may cause pain, discomfort, urinary problems, and affect the quality of intimate life. To avoid complications, it is important not to delay a visit to the doctor.

Book a consultation with a urologist at Oxford Medical — we will select an effective treatment tailored to your needs.

Most often, inflammation of the prostate develops as a result of infection caused by pathogenic or conditionally pathogenic microflora.

The likelihood of the disease increases in the presence of the following factors:

• refusal to use barrier methods of contraception;

• low physical activity;

• chronic diseases;

• lack of regular sexual activity;

• constant stress;

• alcohol consumption, smoking;

• persistent lack of sleep;

• poor hygiene;

• obesity;

• unhealthy diet;

• hypothermia.

The risk of developing prostatitis is especially high in patients with such conditions as diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiency, and other systemic disorders.

Prostatitis can occur in two forms:

• acute – accompanied by pronounced symptoms;

• chronic – develops in a sluggish and asymptomatic form.

Acute prostatitis also has three stages:

• catarrhal – inflammation develops in certain lobes of the prostate gland, leading to changes in the structure of the mucous and submucous layers of the excretory ducts;

• follicular – pus forms in the inflamed lobes;

• parenchymal – inflammation affects most of the tissue, an abscess forms.

Also, depending on the cause, both acute and chronic prostatitis are classified as:

• bacterial;

• non-bacterial.

Classification is important for choosing treatment, as each form requires a different therapeutic approach.

In the early stages, acute prostatitis may present with mild symptoms, such as slight discomfort during urination and general weakness. However, if the disease is infectious in nature, symptoms can rapidly worsen.

Signs of acute prostatitis may include:

• pain in the genital area;

• pain during urination;

• frequent urge to urinate;

• discharge from the urethra;

• presence of blood in the urine;

• fever;

• severe headache.

Chronic inflammation of the prostate gland can be either a consequence of acute prostatitis or a primary condition. It is characterized by more vague symptoms, which is why patients often delay visiting a doctor.

Symptoms of chronic prostatitis may include:

• pain in the perineum and lower back;

• frequent urination;

• weak urine stream;

• pain and discomfort after urination;

• traces of blood in the urine;

• premature ejaculation;

• low libido;

• general malaise;

• rapid fatigue.

These symptoms may be associated with different diseases, so an accurate diagnosis can only be made after proper examination.

Without timely treatment, acute prostatitis can lead to cystitis, pyelonephritis, and other complications, as well as become chronic. In chronic form, the risk of complications also remains high. The disease can lead to:

• prostate adenoma – tissue overgrowth in the prostate;

• problems due to premature ejaculation;

• reduced sexual desire;

• erectile dysfunction;

• vesiculitis – inflammation of the seminal vesicles;

• abscess – accumulation of pus in the prostate with the risk of rupture into the urethra or intestines;

• prostate cyst formation;

• infertility.

During the initial consultation, the urologist interviews the patient about symptoms, reviews medical history, and performs a physical examination.

To establish a precise diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe:

• ultrasound of the prostate gland;

• Doppler ultrasound of blood vessels;

• laboratory tests of blood, urethral smear, and prostate secretion.

This allows identifying the cause, determining the form of the disease, and selecting optimal treatment.

For patients over 50–60 years of age, a blood test for tumor markers specific to prostate cancer is also prescribed. The symptoms of cancer are similar to those of prostatitis, so it's important to rule out this diagnosis.

Treatment is selected individually, taking into account the form and stage of the disease, the presence of comorbidities, etc. In acute cases, the course of therapy usually lasts about two weeks, but if complications are present, it may take longer.

Treatment methods for acute prostatitis include:

• drug therapy;

• herbal remedies;

• physiotherapy procedures;

• therapeutic physical exercise;

• massage, etc.

Treatment for chronic prostatitis is usually more prolonged. The main goals are to eliminate exacerbation, reduce the risk of recurrence, and prevent complications.

In the case of chronic prostatitis, the following are used:

• drug therapy;

• herbal therapy;

• physiotherapy procedures;

• prostate massage;

• adjustment of diet, physical activity, and lifestyle in general;

• surgical treatment.

To reduce the risk of developing or worsening prostatitis, it is necessary to minimize the impact of contributing factors.

For prevention, men are advised to:

• avoid hypothermia;

• use barrier methods of contraception;

• eat a balanced diet;

• maintain proper hydration (1.5–2 liters of water per day);

• lead an active lifestyle;

• perform therapeutic exercises recommended by a urologist;

• quit smoking and alcohol;

• strengthen the immune system;

• manage stress (rest more, get enough sleep);

• undergo a urological examination at least once a year.

At the urology department of Oxford Medical:

• minimally invasive methods are used for surgical treatment;

• highly qualified urologists are employed;

• equipment from leading brands is used;

• all procedures and tests can be completed at the same clinic.

To schedule an appointment with a urologist, call the clinic or fill out the form on the website.