Prostatitis

3 January 2021

Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland that is mainly diagnosed in people over the age of 35-45. Such a disease can develop only in men, because the prostate gland is absent 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

Given the disappointing statistics, the incidence of prostatitis is increasing. Today, inflammation of the prostate affects almost half of the entire male population between the ages of 30 and 70. It should be noted that prostatitis will progress if not treated properly or not. Untimely access to a doctor is fraught with negative consequences in the form of complications: gland abscess or infertility.

The prostate gland is a rounded organ located below the bladder and involved in the formation of sperm (semen). During ejaculation, the muscular parts of the prostate contract, preventing sperm from entering the bladder and urine from the sperm. Glandular dysfunction can cause male infertility.

There are several classifications of prostatitis, distinguish:

acute inflammation of the prostate gland;
chronic bacterial and nonbacterial 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 many unpleasant symptoms. This condition requires urgent medical attention. Staphylococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Escherichia coli and enterobacter can provoke an acute inflammatory process. Some microorganisms are part of the normal microflora, but getting into the prostate gland, they can provoke the development of tissue inflammation.

There are several types of acute inflammation:

catarrhal;
parenchymal;
follicular;
organ abscess.

Acute prostatitis is easily diagnosed by an experienced qualified doctor using modern laboratory tests. Severe symptoms and the typical clinical picture will allow for a quick and correct diagnosis. Treat the acute type of the disease in a comprehensive way. Initially, an antibiotic is used that will eliminate the pathogenic infection. Also, effective therapy will include: drugs to strengthen the immune system, drugs to improve blood circulation in the gland, physiotherapy procedures, if necessary. But the benefits of massage for prostatitis have not been proven.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis

Chronic prostatitis of bacterial etiology is a disease of the prostate gland that has characteristic symptoms. Among the signs of the disease are pain syndrome, urinary disorders, psychological discomfort. Inflammatory-type changes can also occur in biological fluids, including glandular, semen, and urine secretions. Chronic bacterial prostatitis always has a pathogenic agent, which is determined using multistage 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 a fungus of the genus Candida if the man is infected with HIV. Other pathogens, including Klebsiella, Proteus and Enterococcus, provoke the disease.

Chronic nonbacterial prostatitis

Chronic nonbacterial prostatitis may show signs of inflammation or be almost asymptomatic. Only a competent urologist can identify the disease and make a diagnosis based on the results of a complete diagnosis of the patient's condition.

Inflammatory prostatitis

Chronic nonbacterial prostatitis with signs of inflammation can be diagnosed through patient complaints and laboratory tests. An increased content of leukocytes is found in the secretion of the gland after prostate massage. Pathogenic microorganisms are not detected.

Non-inflammatory prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome

If the urologist does not detect an infection during the diagnosis, then the diagnosis may sound like non-inflammatory prostatitis. The main symptom of the disease in this case is constant / recurrent and prolonged pelvic pain. Such an unpleasant syndrome can bother for up to 2-4 months.

Asymptomatic chronic prostatitis

Asymptomatic chronic prostatitis has virtually no symptoms. Such inflammation of the gland proceeds without visible symptoms. The doctor may detect the problem due to the periodic or constant secretion of leukocytes and bacteria in the urine. This form of the disease is treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics.

Practice shows that the symptoms of inflammation of the prostate tissue can be easily confused with other pathologies that affect the pelvic organs. Self-medication can cause complications, the development of additional diseases or critical conditions.

Causes of prostatitis in men

It is impossible to talk about the only cause of inflammation of the prostate gland, as this disease is multifactorial and can occur against the background of various circumstances. Distribute hormonal disorders, hypothermia, significant reduction of immune defenses, circulatory disorders, sexually transmitted infections and sexual abstinence.

Contagious

Pathogens can enter the prostate gland during inflammation, which occurs in the bladder and urethra. The infection can also penetrate the prostate due to hematogenous pathways, such as purulent foci (during tonsillitis, pneumonia or furunculosis). The causes can be: Escherichia coli, staphylococci and enterococci.

Symptoms of prostatitis often occur due to sexually transmitted diseases. Inflammation of the prostate gland occurs due to an infection that affects the tissues of the organ. Acute prostatitis can be caused by the herpes virus or mycoplasma infection, which affects more than just the reproductive system. Chlamydia is also worth mentioning. Gram-negative intracellular microorganisms cause approximately 40-60% of all urogenital infections.

The secretion of the gland contains bactericidal substances that prevent the development of infections inside the body. In order for the infection to spread and an inflammatory process to occur, additional factors are needed, which include stagnation in the circulatory system of the pelvis or stagnation of glandular secretion.

Hypothermia, which significantly reduces the activity of immune cells and the protective functions of the mucous membranes, may be attributed to factors contributing to the spread or activation of the infection. This also includes physical and neuropsychological fatigue, which negatively affects immunity.

Non-infectious

There are several non-infectious causes of inflammation of the tissues in the prostate gland. Signs of prostatitis may occur due to a violation of the mechanics of the entire process of excretion of urine, as urination is carried out due to periodic relaxation of the circular muscles of the prostate and bladder. Various disorders of this process, including failures associated with variability in muscle function (tension and contraction of tissues), contribute to the penetration of urine into the ducts of the prostate. This situation can adversely affect the body, cause irritation and, as a result, symptoms of prostatitis.

Unnatural prolongation, interruption of sexual intercourse or prolonged abstinence can also lead to symptoms or the development of prostatitis. Stagnation and swelling of the prostate gland can lead to secretions in the gland that are fully formed but not excreted from the organ or partially excreted.

Circulatory disorders and sedentary lifestyle

Tight-fitting underwear, too tight a belt, tight pants and shorts, as well as a sedentary lifestyle are often the causes of circulatory disorders in the pelvic area. The gland is full of blood, there is squeezing of blood vessels, there is a delay in the transport of nutrients. Such changes lead to malfunctions of the gland.

Hormonal disorders

The amount of sex hormones plays a special role in the functioning of the prostate gland. They are able to affect the activity of prostate cells. And hormonal overload can increase the risk of signs of prostatitis.

The prostate gland is involved in stabilizing the balance of hormones in the genital area, and disorders in the functioning of the body lead to malfunction. In particular, in chronic prostatitis, dihydrotestosterone decreases and estrogen saturation increases. The extent of the hormonal imbalance in prostatitis will depend on the characteristics and stage of the disease, which can only be determined by a specialist.

Symptoms of prostatitis

All the obvious signs of prostatitis are a whole complex of different disorders. In addition, each type of such disease may have its own individual symptoms. For example, acute prostatitis may be accompanied by fever, a sharp rise in body temperature and other symptoms of severe intoxication of the body. And chronic - impaired ejaculation and decreased sexual desire.

All symptoms of prostatitis can be divided into 3 separate categories:

urination disorders;
problems with sexual function;
mental disorders.

Urinary problems as signs of prostatitis

All complaints of patients related to urination may occur due to:

irritation of the nerve endings, which occurs against the background of the inflammatory process;
narrowing of the lumen of the urethra.

In this case, the symptoms of prostatitis can be:

slow jet;
Difficulty starting to urinate and ejaculate;
feeling that the bladder is not completely emptied;
acute urge to urinate;
urinary incontinence during urge;
increased urination.

Pain syndrome

Painful discomfort with prostatitis can be seen in the lower abdomen. The pain can be attributed to the lower back, groin, scrotum and even the anus. The patient may also complain of groin pain after a long stay in a sitting position. The pain can be sharp or dull.

Intimate life disorders

Symptoms of prostatitis include problems in the intimate area:

decreased libido;
ejaculation disorders (increase or decrease in sperm volume);
weakening of the erection, complete or partial sexual dysfunction;
pain during ejaculation.

Among the signs of prostatitis can be distinguished dull and sluggish orgasms, as well as discharge from the urethra with a mucous consistency.

Mental imbalance

Men often experience psychological difficulties when faced with diseases of the genitourinary system. Due to erection problems, pain or rapid ejaculation, the patient may isolate himself, become aggressive towards others, or simply feel anxious, afraid. Stress occurs, which can negatively affect the immune system, significantly weakening it.

Along with the depressive state appear psychological experiences, expectations of failures in intimate life. Doctors often talk about the importance of paying attention to the psychological state of patients with chronic inflammation of the prostate gland.

Diagnosis of prostatitis

A doctor prescribes a comprehensive diagnosis of a patient with urological problems. If prostatitis is suspected, laboratory tests, ultrasound, rectal digital examination are performed. If after a course of prescribed therapy the symptoms of the disease do not disappear, the urologist may refer the patient for further diagnosis:

blood culture;
computer or magnetic resonance imaging;
bacteriological examination of semen.

Urological examination

Urological examination by a doctor is the first, important step, without which it is impossible to make a correct diagnosis. Thanks to a visual examination and clinical picture, the specialist will determine a possible disease and will prescribe a number of additional diagnostic procedures.

Examination of digital glands is a mandatory method. This procedure is performed through the anus. The examination usually does not cause pain to the patient, although mild discomfort is usually observed. During the urological examination the doctor will take into account the complaints, the patient's age and the presence of chronic pathologies.

Laboratory tests

There is a list of urological methods for laboratory testing of men, which includes a general urine test 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, which determines the presence of pathogenic flora;
examination of glandular secretion;
blood tests for sexually transmitted infections and the presence of prostate-specific antigen to rule out oncology.

Ultrasound examination of the prostate, bladder and kidneys

In the case of prostatitis, a single ultrasound examination of the gland, bladder and kidneys is performed to make a diagnosis. With the help of such a diagnosis, a medical specialist will be able to identify almost all pathological changes, including tumors and tissue inflammation. Ultrasound helps to assess not only the condition of the organs, but also blood flow. If necessary, a transrectal examination is performed for better visualization of the organ.

With an ultrasound scan of the prostate, the doctor evaluates the shape, size, structure, and density and homogeneity of the organ. Signs of prostatitis with ultrasound diagnosis are easy to identify. Also, depending on the results of the study, adenomas and tumors, including cancer, may be detected.

In case of inflammation of the prostate gland, for completeness of the clinical picture, the urologist prescribes ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder. An effective diagnosis can identify:

cystic inclusions;
presence of calcifications;
tissue compaction;
contour inequalities;
changes in tissue echogenicity;
organ sizes, extensions and echo density.

Only a doctor can make a diagnosis based on the results of an ultrasound. Drawing conclusions or prescribing treatment on your own is dangerous and threatens with serious consequences.

Uroflowmetry

Uroflowmetry is a medical diagnosis. This method records the rate of urination during urination, which makes it possible to identify disorders related to the patency of the canal, the activity of muscle tissues and their tone. It is performed on special equipment - using graphics and digital images, the uroflowmeter will sketch the results.

Treatment of prostatitis

It is impossible to talk about the treatment of prostatitis as a specific list of manipulations and measures, as there are several types of disease and each of them requires its own individual therapy.

Treatment of prostatitis with folk remedies

Treatment of prostatitis at home can be done only after consulting a doctor. A competent medical specialist will prescribe medication and possibly physiotherapy and therapeutic exercises. Prescriptions from traditional medicine can also be recommended, but should not be the main therapeutic method.

Treatment of prostatitis at home should be done carefully and taking into account all the recommendations of the doctor. The urologist may recommend herbal infusions and decoctions, candles with honey and syrups. It is important to know that all prescriptions for alternative medicine have their own contraindications. Do not self-medicate or buy questionable goods, including massagers, bracelets, prostatitis plaster, special underwear or pillows. The unjustified purchase and use of drugs without the advice of a doctor can become a fatal mistake, due to which additional diseases will appear or the patient's condition will worsen.

Home herbal treatment for prostatitis

Herbal remedies for prostatitis can help alleviate the unpleasant symptoms of inflammation of the gland. It is used as an adjunct to medical (drug) therapy. The urologist, if necessary, will prescribe useful prescriptions based on the characteristics of the patient's condition, his age and the presence of chronic pathologies.

Home treatment for prostatitis requires a serious attitude to your health. You can prepare a bath or enema based on herbal preparations at home, but the doctor must specify the ingredients, method of preparation and dosage. In such cases, it is most often recommended to use: the herb creeping cumin, chamomile flowers, marsh cinnamon, sage, corn stigmas, ivan tea, white rose root, licorice rhizomes and linden inflorescences.

Also popular:

Parsley. It has a strengthening effect on blood vessels and has an anti-inflammatory effect. The seeds are especially useful, they are added in crushed form to various recipes of alternative medicine.
Ginseng. The root of this plant increases the tone of blood vessels. It has a stimulating effect.
St. John's wort. The plant has antibacterial and soothing properties. The herb is indispensable in depressive disorders, for the prevention and treatment of stress, which, for example, can occur against the background of erectile dysfunction.

Provided that all medical prescriptions are followed, some prescriptions from traditional medicine can improve the effect of the therapy.

Hirudotherapy

Hirudotherapy for the treatment of prostatitis at home raises many doubts among experts from around the world. Therapy with the help of medical leeches, specially grown in biofactories, is to some extent curative, and the saliva of the worm with anelides also has healing properties. It contains several useful active substances, among which hirudin deserves to be emphasized. In prostatitis, leeches are applied to the skin just above the pubis, groin and anus. The therapy has its nuances, which the doctor will tell you. Self-medication is dangerous.

In what cases can prostatitis not be treated at home?

There are a number of alarming symptoms in acute or chronic prostatitis, for which it is important to urgently seek the help of a competent doctor:

acute pain in the lower abdomen;
bleeding when urinating;
blood in the stool;
fever, dizziness, chills, vomiting.

Treatment of prostatitis at home is important to be carried out under the strict supervision of a urologist. Any medications or prescriptions for alternative medications should be discussed with your doctor before use. Do not take your own medicine on the advice of, for example, friends or pharmacists at the pharmacy. You risk damaging your body and provoking a number of negative reactions.

Treatment of prostatitis with folk remedies without consulting a specialist can end in failure. Take care of your health.

Treatment of prostatitis in men: drugs

What should be the treatment of prostatitis in men, what type of drugs is prescribed by the doctor? Usually, treatment for acute and chronic prostatitis involves antibiotics. It is advisable to choose such drugs, taking into account the culture, which determines the sensitivity to a particular antibiotic.

Prostatitis medications: antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs

Only a doctor can prescribe drugs for prostatitis based on the results of the patient's diagnosis, including responses to laboratory texts. It is important to know that drugs for prostatitis from the group of beta-lactams and nitrafurans are ineffective because they cannot penetrate the tissues of the prostate. It is not necessary to expect good results from such treatment of prostatitis.

Currently, drugs from the groups of fluoroquinolones and macrolides show the best results in the treatment of prostatitis in men. To eliminate the symptoms associated with urinary disorders, the urologist may prescribe a drug for prostatitis in the form of an alpha-blocker, as well as anti-inflammatory drugs. Herbal medicines, hormonal medicines and immunocorrection drugs are popular.

Traditional medical treatment for prostatitis in men can be supplemented with physical therapy. Such a therapeutic technique is used as a means of treating prostatitis in the absence of symptoms of an acute form of the disease.

Prostatitis Patch

Today, men with prostatitis often hear about prostatitis patches. The manufacturers of the dubious product offer quality prevention or quick recovery.

This therapy can not be called treatment of prostatitis with folk remedies. It is not related to alternative medicine, but is not practiced by qualified physicians. The prostatitis patch has no evidence base. Neither doctors nor real customer reviews confirm the effectiveness of the Chinese universal prostatitis patch.

Prostatitis Suppositories

Prostatitis suppositories are most often prescribed in combination with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Rectal suppositories can eliminate the causes of prostatitis, have a healing effect and relieve tissue inflammation. Prostatitis suppositories are generally similar to microenemas. Only suppositories are composed of fats and oils, and enemas are mostly water.

Coconut oil is most often the basis of suppositories for prostatitis. It is this component that contributes to the almost instantaneous absorption of medicinal substances in the intestinal wall. Prostatitis suppositories also often contain vitamins.

Physiotherapy as a complementary medicine for prostatitis

If we look at the whole complex treatment of prostatitis in men, then drugs are the main part of therapy. Physiotherapy is an additional method of treating prostatitis in men. Prescribe procedures for inflammation of the prostate gland, provided there are no acute symptoms.

If you do not know how and how prostatitis in men is treated with physiotherapy, then you should note the most common of them:

drug electrophoresis;
UHF therapy (treatment with an electric field using capacitor plates);
magnetic therapy (therapeutic effect of a magnetic field on the patient's body);
microclysters with herbal infusions and decoctions (such physiotherapy is the treatment of chronic acute prostatitis with folk remedies);
general and local baths using different liquids and temperature conditions;
galvanizing (exposing the human body to low voltage direct current).

How to treat prostatitis, gland massage

The popular method of treating prostatitis - massage today (according to the results of a number of studies) there is no evidence of its effectiveness. If the man has prostatitis, massage can be used to stimulate the outflow 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.

It is strictly forbidden, if there is prostatitis, to massage with adenoma and cysts of the gland, cracks in the anus, with urinary retention and fever. Acute infectious processes in the bladder or kidneys are also contraindications.