Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland that is predominantly diagnosed in people over 35-45 years of age. Such a disease can only develop in men because the prostate is not found in the female body. Why does the disease occur and what factors contribute to its development? How to treat prostatitis and what are the risks of complications?
Prostatitis in men
According to disappointing statistics, the incidence of prostatitis is increasing relentlessly. Today, prostatitis affects almost half of the total male population between the ages of 30 and 70. It should be noted that prostatitis progresses if treated incorrectly or not. Timely access to the doctor has negative consequences in the form of complications: glandular abscess or infertility.
The prostate gland is a rounded organ that is located under the bladder and is involved in the formation of sperm (seminal fluid). During ejaculation, the muscle parts of the prostate contract, preventing sperm from entering the bladder and urine from entering the sperm. Gland dysfunction can cause male infertility.
There are several classifications of prostatitis, distinguished:
- acute inflammation of the prostate gland;
- chronic bacterial and non-bacterial prostatitis;
- asymptomatic disease.
Inflammation of the prostate is often accompanied by vesiculitis or urethritis (inflammation of the urethra).
Acute prostatitis
The acute form of the disease usually occurs spontaneously and is accompanied by a number of unpleasant symptoms. This condition requires urgent medical attention. Staphylococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Escherichia coli and enterobacteria can trigger the acute inflammatory process. Some microorganisms are part of the normal microflora, but when they enter the prostate gland, they can provoke the development of tissue inflammation.
There are several types of acute inflammation:
- hurut;
- parenchymal;
- follicular;
- organ abscess.
Acute prostatitis can be easily diagnosed by an experienced, trained physician using modern laboratory tests. Severe symptoms and a typical clinical picture allow for a quick and correct diagnosis. Comprehensively treat the acute type of the disease. Initially, an antibiotic is used that eliminates the infection of the pathogen. Effective therapy includes: drugs that strengthen the immune system, drugs that improve the blood flow to the gland, and, if necessary, physiotherapy procedures. But the benefits of prostatitis massage have not been proven.
Chronic bacterial prostatitis
Chronic prostatitis of bacterial etiology is a disease of the prostate gland with characteristic symptoms. Signs of the disease include pain syndrome, urinary disorders, and psychological discomfort. Inflammatory-type changes can also occur in biological fluids, including secretions from the gland, sperm, and urine. Chronic bacterial prostatitis always has a pathogen that is determined by multilevel laboratory tests.
Infectious prostatitis is most commonly associated with microorganisms of the genus Enterobacteriaceae. The main causes of prostatitis are Trichomonas, ureplasma, gonococcus, mycoplasma, chlamydia, gardnerella. Inflammation can be caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis or fungi of the genus Candida if a person is infected with HIV. Other pathogenic microorganisms, including Klebsiella, Proteus, and Enterococcus, provoke the disease.
Chronic, non-bacterial prostatitis
Chronic, non-bacterial prostatitis can be signs of inflammation or almost asymptomatic. Only a competent urologist can identify the disease and diagnose it based on the results of a complete diagnosis of the patient’s condition.
Inflammatory prostatitis
Chronic, non-bacterial prostatitis with signs of inflammation can be diagnosed based on patient complaints and laboratory findings. After massaging the prostate, there are increased leukocytes in the secretion of the gland. No pathogenic microorganisms are detected.
Non-inflammatory prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome
If the urologist does not detect an infection at the time of diagnosis, the diagnosis may appear to be non-inflammatory prostatitis. The main symptom of the disease in this case is permanent / recurrent and prolonged pain in the pelvic area. Such an unpleasant syndrome can interfere for up to 2-4 months.
Asymptomatic chronic prostatitis
Asymptomatic chronic prostatitis has virtually no symptoms. Such inflammation of the gland progresses without visible symptoms. Your doctor may recognize the problem because of the periodic or constant secretion of leukocytes and bacteria in your urine. This form of the disease is treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics.
As practice shows, inflammatory symptoms of prostate tissue can be easily confused with other pathologies affecting the pelvic organs. Self-medication can cause complications, the development of additional illnesses, or critical conditions.
Causes of prostatitis in men
It is impossible to talk about the sole cause of inflammation of the prostate gland because this disease can be multifactorial and can occur in a variety of circumstances. To allocate hormonal disorders, hypothermia, significant decrease in immune protection, circulatory disorders, STD infections, and sexual abstinence.
Infectious
Pathogenic microorganisms can enter the prostate during inflammation in the bladder and urethra. The infection can also enter the prostate due to hematogenous pathways, such as from purulent foci (during tonsillitis, pneumonia, or furunculosis). Pathogens include Escherichia coli, staphylococci and enterococci.
Symptoms of prostatitis are often caused by a sexually transmitted disease. Inflammation of the prostate gland is caused by an infection that affects the tissues of the organ. Acute prostatitis can be caused by a herpes virus or mycoplasma infection that affects more than just the reproductive system. Chlamydia is also worth mentioning. Gram-negative intracellular microorganisms cause about 40-60% of all urogenital infections.
The secret of the gland contains bactericidal substances that prevent the development of infections within the organ. Additional factors are needed for the infection to spread and for the inflammatory process to occur, including stagnation of the pelvic circulatory system or stagnation of glandular secretion.
Hypothermia, which significantly reduces the activity of immune cells and the protective functions of the mucous membranes, can be attributed to factors that contribute to the spread or activation of the infection. This includes physical and neuropsychological overload, which negatively affect immunity.
Not contagious
There are several non-infectious causes of tissue inflammation in the prostate gland. Signs of prostatitis may be due to a violation of the mechanics of the entire process of urination, as urination occurs due to intermittent relaxation of the prostheses of the prostate and bladder. Various disorders of this process, including failures associated with variability in muscle function (tissue tension and contraction), contribute to the entry of urine into the prostate ducts. This situation can adversely affect the organ, irritation and consequently cause symptoms of prostatitis.
Unnatural prolongation, interruption of intercourse, or prolonged abstinence can also lead to symptoms or prostatitis. Stagnation and swelling of the prostate gland can lead to a secretion inherent in the gland that is fully formed but not or partially excreted from the organ.
Circulatory disorders and sedentary lifestyles
Body-lingerie, too tight belts, tight pants and shorts, and a sedentary lifestyle cause circulatory disorders around the pool. The gland overflows with the blood, the blood vessels become constricted, and delays in the delivery of nutrients appear. Such changes lead to gland failure.
Hormonal Disorders
The amount of sex hormones plays a special role in the functioning of the prostate. They are able to affect the activity of prostate cells. And hormonal overload can increase the risk of signs of prostatitis.
The prostate is involved in stabilizing the balance of hormones in the genital area, and violation of organ function leads to malfunction. Especially in chronic prostatitis, the dihydrotestosterone index decreases and estrogen saturation increases. The extent of hormonal imbalance in prostatitis depends on the characteristics and stage of the disease, which can only be determined by a specialist.
Symptoms of Prostatitis
All obvious signs of prostatitis are a combination of different disorders. Moreover, each type of such disease has its own unique symptoms. For example, acute prostatitis can be associated with fever, a sudden rise in body temperature, and other symptoms of severe intoxication of the body. And chronic - impaired ejaculation and decreased libido.
Each symptom of prostatitis can be divided into 3 separate categories:
- urinary disorders;
- sexual function problems;
- mental disorders.
Urinary problems such as signs of prostatitis
All urination complaints can be caused by:
- Irritation of nerve endings that occurs in the background of the inflammatory process;
- narrowing of the lumen of the urethra.
In this case, the symptoms of prostatitis may be:
- slow beam;
- Difficulty initiating and emptying urine;
- feels that the bladder is not completely emptied;
- cough urination;
- urinary incontinence during urge;
- increased urination.
Pain Syndrome
A painful discomfort associated with prostatitis has been observed in the abdominal cavity. The pain can be given in the lower back, groin, scrotum, and even the anus. In addition, the patient may complain of groin pain after sitting for a long time. The pain may be sharp or dull.
Disorders of Intimate Life
Symptoms of prostatitis include problems in the intimate area:
- decreased libido; disorders of ejaculation
- (increase or decrease in sperm volume);
- erectile dysfunction, complete or partial sexual dysfunction;
- pain during ejaculation.
Signs of prostatitis include a dull and slow orgasm, as well as mucus secreting from the urethra.
Mental imbalance
Men often experience psychological difficulties when faced with a disease of the urogenital system. Problems with erection, pain, or rapid ejaculation can cause the patient to withdraw, become aggressive toward others, or simply feel anxiety or fear. Stress appears that can negatively affect the immune system, significantly weakening it.
Along with the state of depression, psychological experiences and the expectation of the failures of intimate life appear. Doctors often talk about the importance of paying attention to the mental state of patients with chronic inflammation of the prostate gland.
Diagnosis of prostatitis
Your doctor will prescribe a comprehensive diagnosis for a patient with urological problems. If prostatitis is suspected, laboratory tests, ultrasound, and rectal digital examination are performed. If the symptoms of the disease do not disappear after the prescribed therapy, the urologist may refer the patient for further diagnosis:
- blood culture;
- computer or magnetic resonance imaging; Bacteriological examination of
- sperm.
Urological examination
A urological examination by a doctor is the first important step without which it is impossible to make a correct diagnosis. Thanks to the visual examination and the clinical picture, the specialist determines the possible disease and prescribes a number of additional diagnostic procedures.
Digital gland examination is a mandatory method. This procedure is performed through the anus. Normally, the test does not cause pain in the patient, although mild discomfort is usually observed. During the urological examination, the doctor takes into account the complaints, the age of the patient and the presence of chronic pathologies.
Laboratory research
There is a list of laboratory urological methods for men that includes general urine tests and blood tests for HIV, markers of hepatitis C and B, and RW. Patients with suspected inflammation of the prostate gland are often prescribed:
- urine analysis to determine the presence of pathogenic flora;
- examination of gland secretion;
- Blood test for sexually transmitted infections and the presence of prostate-specific antigen to rule out oncology.
Ultrasound of the prostate, bladder and kidneys
In prostatitis, a single ultrasound of the gland, bladder, and kidneys is performed to make a diagnosis. With such a diagnosis, a medical professional can identify almost any pathological change, including tumors and tissue inflammation. Ultrasound helps to assess not only the condition of organs but also blood flow. If necessary, a transrectal examination is performed to better visualize the organ.
By examining the prostate with an ultrasound, the doctor evaluates the shape, size, structure, and density and homogeneity of the organ. Signs of prostatitis with ultrasound diagnosis are easily identifiable. Depending on the results of the test, adenomas and tumors, including cancer, can be detected.
In case of inflammation of the prostate gland, the urologist will record the ultrasound of the kidney and bladder to complete the clinical picture. An effective diagnosis can recognize:
- cystic inclusions;
- presence of calcifications;
- tissue thickening;
- contour irregularities;
- changes in tissue echogenicity;
- organ sizes, extensions, and echo density.
Ultrasound results can only be diagnosed by a doctor. Drawing conclusions or prescribing treatment in itself has dangerous and serious consequences.
Uroflometry
Uroflometry is a medical diagnosis. This method records the rate of urination, which allows the identification of violations related to channel permeability, muscle tissue activity, and tone. They are performed on special equipment - with the help of graphics and digital images, the uroflowmeter outlines the results.
Treatment of prostatitis
It is impossible to talk about the treatment of prostatitis as a specific list of manipulations and measures because there are several types of the disease and each of them needs its own individual therapy.
Treating Prostatitis with Folk Remedies
Treatment of prostatitis at home should only be done after consulting a doctor. A competent medical professional will prescribe medication, possibly physiotherapy and therapeutic practices. Prescriptions for traditional medicine may also be recommended, but may not be the main therapeutic methods.
Treatment of prostatitis at home should be done carefully and taking into account all the doctor's recommendations. Your urologist may recommend herbal infusions and decoctions, honey candles and syrups. It is important to know that each alternative prescription has its own contraindications. You cannot self-heal and buy dubious products, including massagers, bracelets, prostatitis plaster, special underwear, or pillows. Unauthorized purchase and use of medications without the advice of a physician can become a fatal mistake, leading to additional illnesses or worsening of the patient’s condition.
Home Herbal Treatment for Prostatitis
An herbal medicine for prostatitis can help suppress the unpleasant symptoms of inflammation of the gland. It is used as an adjunct to medical (drug) therapy. The urologist will prescribe useful prescriptions, if necessary, based on the characteristics of the patient's condition, age, and the presence of chronic pathologies.
Treating prostatitis at home requires a serious attitude to your health. You can make a bath or enema based on herbal preparations at home, but your doctor should indicate the ingredients, method of preparation, and dosage. In such cases, the most commonly recommended use is: creeping cumin herb, pharmacy chamomile flower, swamp creeper, sage, corn stigmas, ivan tea, marshmallow root, licorice rhizomes and linden inflorescence.
Also popular:
- Parsley. It has a strengthening effect on blood vessels and has an anti-inflammatory effect. The seeds are particularly useful, added in crushed form to various recipes of alternative medicine.
- Ginseng. The root of this plant increases the tone of the blood vessels. It has a stimulating effect.
- St. John's wort. The plant has antibacterial and sedative properties. The herb is essential for the prevention and treatment of depressive disorders, which can occur, for example, in the background of erectile dysfunction.
Provided all medical prescriptions are followed, certain prescriptions of traditional medicine may enhance the effect of therapy.
Hirudotherapy
Hirudotherapy for the treatment of prostatitis at home raises many doubts among experts around the world. Therapy using medicinal leeches grown specifically in organic factories has some healing effects, and the saliva of the annelid worm also has healing properties. It contains a number of useful active ingredients, of which hirudin is worth highlighting. In prostatitis, leeches are applied to the skin above the vulva, in the groin and anus. Therapy has its nuances, which the doctor will tell you about. Self-healing is dangerous.
In what cases can prostatitis not be treated at home?
Acute or chronic prostatitis has a number of alarming symptoms for which it is important to seek medical attention immediately:
- sharp pain in the lower abdomen;
- emptying blood when urinating;
- blood in the stool;
- increased body temperature, dizziness, chills, vomiting.
Home treatment of prostatitis is important under the close supervision of a urologist. You should talk to your doctor before using any medicine or alternative medicine. Do not take your own medicine, for example, on the advice of friends or pharmacists at the pharmacy. There is a risk of damaging your body and triggering a number of negative reactions.
Treating prostatitis with folk remedies can fail without medical advice. Be mindful of your health.
Treating prostatitis in men: medications
What should be the medical treatment for men's prostatitis, what types of medications should your doctor prescribe? Therapy for acute and chronic prostatitis usually involves antibiotics. It is advisable to select such drugs, taking into account the culture that determines the susceptibility to a particular antibiotic.
Cures for Prostatitis: Antibiotics and Anti-Inflammatory Diseases
Remedies for prostatitis should only be prescribed by a physician based on the results of the patient's diagnosis, including responses to laboratory texts. It is important to know that betalactams and nitrafuran groups are ineffective because they cannot penetrate prostate tissue. Such treatment of prostatitis should not be expected to produce good results.
Currently, drugs from the group of fluoroquinolones and macrolides show the best results in the treatment of prostatitis in men. To eliminate the symptoms associated with urinary disorders, your urologist may prescribe an anti-inflammatory drug in the form of an alpha-blocker as well as anti-inflammatory drugs. Herbal medicines, hormonal and immune correction medicines are popular.
Traditional medical treatment for men's prostatitis can be supplemented with physiotherapy. Such a therapeutic technique is used to treat prostatitis in the absence of symptoms of an acute form of the disease.
Prostatitis patch
Today, men with prostatitis often hear about patches of prostatitis. Manufacturers of the questionable product offer quality prevention or quick recovery.
This therapy cannot be called the treatment of prostatitis with folk remedies. It is not related to alternative medicine, but is not used in practice by trained physicians. There is no evidence of a prostatitis patch. Neither doctors nor real customer reviews confirm the effectiveness of China’s universal patch against prostatitis.
Prostate Suppositories
Prostatitis suppositories are most commonly prescribed in combination with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Rectal suppositories can eliminate the causes of prostatitis, have a curative effect and alleviate tissue inflammation. Suppositories for prostatitis are in principle similar to microclickers. Only the suppositories are made up of fats and oils, and the enemas are predominantly water.
Coconut oil is most often the basis of suppositories for prostatitis. This component contributes to the almost immediate absorption of medicinal substances into the intestinal walls. In addition, suppositories for prostatitis often contain vitamins.
Physiotherapy as an adjunct to prostatitis
Considering all the complex treatments for prostatitis in men, medications are the mainstay of therapy. Physiotherapy is another method of treating prostatitis in men. Prescribe procedures for inflammation of the prostate gland, provided there are no acute symptoms.
If you don't know how and how to treat men's prostatitis with physiotherapy, here are some of the most common:
- drug electrophoresis;
- UHF therapy (electric field treatment using capacitor plates);
- magnetotherapy (therapeutic effect of a magnetic field on the patient's body);
- mud therapy;
- microcycles with herbal infusion and decoction (such physiotherapy is the treatment of chronic acute prostatitis with folk remedies);
- general and local baths using different fluids and temperature conditions;
- electroplating (exposure to the low voltage direct current of the human body).
How to treat prostatitis, gland massage
A popular method of treating prostatitis - massage today (according to several studies) has no evidence of its effectiveness. If a man has prostatitis, massage can be used to stimulate the drainage of secretions from the prostate gland. Such manipulation is performed through the anus with the help of fingers, only in a medical institution, under the guidance of a specialist.
Massage with adenoma and glandular cysts, rectal ruptures, urinary retention, and elevated body temperature is strictly prohibited. Acute infectious processes in the bladder or kidneys are also contraindicated.