Prostatitis: symptoms and treatment
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate, the gland located below the bladder in men. The disease can affect men of any age, but is more common in men of 50 years. It causes bothersome pain and a variety of urinary symptoms.
Common symptoms of prostatitis
Prostatitis can be acute or chronic. Symptoms vary according to the type of prostatitisbut they often include :
- Pain or discomfort in the pelvis, perineum or lower abdomen.
- Urinary symptoms such as frequent urination (pollakiuria), difficulty emptying the bladder, dysuria (pain or burning when urinating).
- Pain during ejaculation or intercourse.
- Sometimes fever and chills, particularly in the case of acute prostatitis of bacterial origin.
Different types of prostatitis :
- Acute bacterial prostatitis sudden bacterial infection with severe pain, fever and marked urinary difficulties.
- Chronic bacterial prostatitis persistent or recurrent bacterial infection, causing moderate but regular pain.
- Chronic non-bacterial prostatitis (chronic pelvic pain) chronic inflammation without clearly identified infection, with long-lasting pain in the pelvis.
- Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis (no obvious symptoms).
Precise diagnosis
The diagnosis of prostatitis is made by a urologist thanks to :
- A clinical examination, including a rectal examination to evaluate theprostate inflammation.
- A urinalysis to detect a possible urinary tract infection or prostate infection.
- A prostate ultrasound to assess prostate size and look for bladder residue after micturition.
- Complementary examinations such as prostatic MRI in case of doubt.
Treatment of prostatitis
Treatment depends on type of prostatitis diagnosed.
Treatment of bacterial prostatitis (acute or chronic)
- A antibiotic treatment is prescribed for several weeks to effectively eliminatebacterial infection.
Drug treatments for pain relief
- Anti-inflammatories to reduce prostate inflammation and soothe pain.
- Alpha blockers to relax prostate muscles and facilitate urine flow, reducing the pain associated with urination.
Complementary treatments for chronic forms
- Prostate massage Recommended in certain cases of chronic bacterial prostatitis to reduce inflammation and facilitate evacuation of the prostate gland. prostate fluid.
- Hot sitz baths can relieve pelvic pain by relaxing tense perineal muscles.
- Physiotherapy of the perineum to reduce chronic pain associated with persistent muscle tension.
Surgical treatment (TURP) in special cases
In the event of failure of drug treatments or severe obstruction caused by associated prostatic hypertrophy, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) may be considered. This surgical procedure removes part of the prostate tissue responsible for persistent pain and urinary symptoms.
Risk factors for prostatitis
Several factors increase the risk of prostatitis, including:
- History ofurinary tract infections.
- Chronic stress.
- Activities that cause repeated microtrauma to the perineum (prolonged cycling, horseback riding).
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia present in men over 50.
- Weakening of the immune system.
How long does chronic prostatitis last?
The duration of chronic prostatitis varies according to the cause:
- Chronic bacterial prostatitis It can last from several weeks to several months, or even years if not properly treated.
- Chronic pelvic pain (non-bacterial) This form is complex, and can persist for several months or even years. In this case, the aim of treatment is to control symptoms rather than hope for a rapid, definitive cure.
Factors influencing the duration of chronic prostatitis :
- Rapid diagnosis and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment.
- Strict compliance with prescribed treatment, especially antibiotics in the event of bacterial infection.
- Effective management of risk factors such as stress, a sedentary lifestyle and general hygiene.
Although chronic prostatitis can last a long time, proper medical management considerably reduces the intensity and frequency of pain.
When is an emergency consultation necessary?
Consult a urologist immediately in the event of :
- High fever associated with intense pelvic pain.
- Sudden inability to urinate.
- Sudden presence of blood in the urine.
- Persistent severe pain despite usual treatments.
These symptoms require prompt medical attention to avoid severe complications.
Practical tips for living better with prostatitis
Here are a few simple recommendations for long-term pain relief and recurrence prevention:
- Drink enough water to avoid urinary tract infections.
- Avoid irritating drinks such as alcohol or coffee.
- Take prescribed medication regularly (anti-inflammatories, alpha blockers).
- Do gentle exercises to relax the pelvic area.
- Take warm sitz baths to reduce pain.
Conclusion
Prostatitis is a painful but treatable condition. An accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment (medication, antibiotics, TURP in the event of obstruction) and an improved lifestyle generally enable pain and urinary symptoms to be effectively controlled.
Regular consultations with your urologist, especially after 50 yearshelps you manage your disease more effectively and preserve your quality of life over the long term.
