Key Points About Prostatitis
- Prostatitis is characterized by a prostate gland that is inflamed and swollen.
- Symptoms of prostatitis vary depending upon the cause, but may include a frequent need to urinate, trouble urinating, or pain in the pelvic area.
- Treatment requires targeting the underlying cause of inflammation, which may involve taking antibiotics or other medications, as prescribed.
Can Complementary Therapies Help
Many men find complementary therapies help them deal with their symptoms and the day-to-day impact of their prostatitis, helping them feel more in control. Some men find they feel more relaxed and better about themselves and their treatment.
Complementary therapies are usually used alongside medical treatments, rather than instead of them. Some complementary therapies have side effects and some may interfere with your prostatitis treatment. So tell your doctor or nurse about any complementary therapies youre using or thinking of trying.
You should also tell your complementary therapist about your prostatitis and any treatments youre having, as this can affect what therapies are safe and suitable for you.
Some GPs and hospitals offer complementary therapies. But if you want to find a therapist yourself, make sure they are properly qualified and belong to a professional body. The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council have advice about finding a therapist.
The following are examples of complementary therapies that some men use.
Be very careful when buying herbal remedies over the internet. Many are made outside the UK and may not be high-quality. Many companies make claims that arent based on proper research. There may be no real evidence that their products work, and some may even be harmful. Remember that even if a product is natural, this doesnt mean it is safe. For more information about using herbal remedies safely visit the MHRA website.
Things That Happen When You Sit Down All Day
More than half of us spend over six hours sitting down each and every day, and a widening rear end isnt the only result. Sitting can have short- and long-term effects on your health and body, making this seemingly benign activity potentially deadly.
Read on to learn how damaging it can be to sit all day from your head to your toes.
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What Is The Prognosis For Prostatitis Does It Increase The Risk Of Developing Prostate Cancer
Prostatitis caused by bacterial illness often can be treated with antibiotics, or the condition can be chronic that recurs and requires long-term medical attention.
- Acute bacterial prostatitis can often be treated very successfully and has a very good prognosis.
- Chronic prostatitis, and especially chronic nonbacterial prostatitis, can often lead to long-term symptoms and discomfort if treatment is unsuccessful. It is important to have close follow-up and continued care by either your primary care doctor or a urologist.
- Prostatitis does not increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.
Continue Learning About Male Reproductive System Disorders
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.
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What Treatment Options Are Available
The goal of treatment is to help improve symptoms. Taking antibiotics to treat this condition is controversial.
Some doctors dont give antibiotics because the condition may be chronic and not caused by an active infection. Some doctors will prescribe antibiotics, thinking it could help treat an infection that may not be easily identified.
Other common treatments include:
- medications to relax the prostate muscles called alpha-adrenergic blockers the same medications used to treat other prostate conditions, like BPH
- other medications like muscle relaxants or tricyclic antidepressants to help with pain
- prescription pain medication or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling
- plant extracts, like some herbal supplements that have
Alternative and natural remedies that may reduce ongoing pain include:
- warm baths
- using a cushion or pillow when sitting for long periods
- massage therapy
Best Exercises For Prostate
Various exercises may help to improve a mans prostate health. Some activities will affect the prostate gland more directly than others. There are a few exercises that instead offer health benefits that would affect the prostate gland indirectly.
For example, reducing body fat through strength training and cardio exercises help to treat obesity. In turn, the reduces weight may be beneficial for the prostate gland.
Kegel exercises are helpful too. This is an exercise that men can perform anywhere even while they are sitting in front of a desk. The exercise helps to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. In turn, it adds more support to the organs and other parts located in the groin.
During a Kegel exercise, there will be an increase in blood flow to the male sex organ. With these exercises, it can help to build up a healthy prostate while keeping all of the sexual organs functioning properly.
Male pelvic floor exercises may also help alleviate prostatitis symptoms. Male CPPS is difficult to treat and often requires a multimodal approach.
However, a study published in Translational Andrology and Urology indicated that pelvic floor rehabilitation might be an effective treatment option for select patients.
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Why Sitting Is Bad For Your Prostate
Sitting is something that we all do every day. A lot of men need to sit in front of an office for extended periods each day. This leads to inactivity which is a serious concern among the male population.
In one study2, 30.1% of male participants sat for more than five hours each day. These men were classified as being sedentary. Only 28.9% of the men in the study sat for less than two hours every day. This shows that the prevalence of physical inactivity is a growing concern among men.
Physical inactivity is known to increase the risk of obesity3. Other conditions also hold strong links to a sedentary lifestyle. Men have a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, and more. It has been reported that a sedentary lifestyle is a major cause of premature death.
These factors are generally well-known among the male population. What many do not realize is that sitting too much could be harmful to the prostate as well.
The direct effects of a sedentary lifestyle, with an emphasis on obesity, already raises the risk of prostate conditions. Studies confirmed a link exists between obesity and BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia4.
Some studies also show other interactions between sitting for too long and increasing the risk of prostate problems. One study5 considered data from various previous clinical trials and scientific reports. Researchers explain that there is a 16% increased risk of an elevated PSA level for every one hour that a man sits down.
What Are Clinical Trials And Are They Right For You
Clinical trials are part of clinical research and at the heart of all medical advances. Clinical trials look at new ways to prevent, detect, or treat disease. Researchers also use clinical trials to look at other aspects of care, such as improving the quality of life for people with chronic illnesses. Find out if clinical trials are right for you.
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Complementary Therapies And Relaxation Techniques
Although there isnt much research behind them, some men find that complementary therapies can help them feel better about themselves and their treatment, and can help manage symptoms. They are used alongside conventional treatments, rather than instead of them.
- Complementary therapies. You could try acupuncture, massage or reflexology , aromatherapy or hypnotherapy, for example. They might help to relieve stress, making you feel more relaxed.
- Find ways to relax. Techniques such as deep breathing, relaxation tapes, meditation, taking a warm bath, yoga, or listening to music, can help you feel more comfortable and take your mind off any pain.
- Supplements or herbal remedies. Some men have found that the plant extracts Quercetin and saw palmetto, and a pollen extract known as cernilton, help with symptoms.
Speak to your doctor or nurse if youre thinking of using complementary therapies or supplements, as they may be able to advise you.
Make Some Lifestyle Changes
There are a number of things you can try that other men have found helpful. You might want to plan your day more, to allow for things like toilet trips. Trying different things can help you feel more in control, and that you are actively doing something to improve your health. If one thing doesnt work, try something else. Here are some suggestions.
- Watch what you drink. Drink plenty of fluids about six to eight glasses of water a day. And cut down on fizzy drinks, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and drinks that contain caffeine as these can irritate the bladder and make some urinary problems worse.
- Watch what you eat. Some foods may make your symptoms worse. Try to work out what these are so you can avoid them. Theres some evidence that spicy foods can make the symptoms of CPPS worse.
- Avoid cycling. Its a good idea to avoid activities that put pressure on the area between your back passage and testicles , such as cycling. They can make symptoms worse. If you want to keep cycling, you could try using a different saddle, such as one made from gel.
- Keep a diary. This can help you spot things that make your symptoms worse, and can be a useful way of showing your doctor what youre experiencing. Record things like food, drink, exercise, how stressed you feel and your symptoms.
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Tips For Coping With An Enlarged Prostate
An enlarged prostate can be an uncomfortable and often disruptive condition. Not only does it keep you awake at night as you make regular trips to the toilet, it can be an embarrassing problem during the day too. You may have to walk out during meetings for example, or make several stops when driving. So, to help you manage the condition better and to keep disruption to a minimum, in this blog I take a look at 10 tips for dealing with an enlarged prostate.
Dr. Jen Tan
What Are The Symptoms Of Prostatitis
Each type of prostatitis has a range of symptoms that vary depending on the cause and may not be the same for every man. Many symptoms are similar to those of other conditions.
Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. The main symptoms of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome can include pain or discomfort lasting 3 or more months in one or more of the following areas:
- between the scrotum and anus
- the central lower abdomen
- the scrotum
- the lower back
Pain during or after ejaculation is another common symptom. A man with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome may have pain spread out around the pelvic area or may have pain in one or more areas at the same time. The pain may come and go and appear suddenly or gradually. Other symptoms may include
- pain in the urethra during or after urination.
- pain in the penis during or after urination.
- urinary frequencyurination eight or more times a day. The bladder begins to contract even when it contains small amounts of urine, causing more frequent urination.
- urinary urgencythe inability to delay urination.
- a weak or an interrupted urine stream.
Acute bacterial prostatitis. The symptoms of acute bacterial prostatitis come on suddenly and are severe. Men should seek immediate medical care. Symptoms of acute bacterial prostatitis may include
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Tips To Reduce The Damage Of Sitting At Your Desk:
- Break up long periods of sitting with one or two minutes of physical activity every half an hour, such as walking, doing star jumps, or stretching
- Exercise for between half an hour and an hour each day to offset the negative effects of sitting down at work
- Stand on public transport rather than grabbing a seat
- Get a standing desk or make do by popping your laptop on some boxes so you can stand and type
- Take the stairs instead of the lift
- Walk up escalators
- Walk around when youre on the phone
- Every time you go for tea or coffee, do a lap around the office
- Walk over to talk to a coworker instead of sending them a Slack message
- Do gentle exercise while watching TV
Thats scary stuff, considering a survey from AXA PPP last year found that the average UK worker spends nine hours a day sitting down.
The exact nature and mechanism of the association between prolonged sitting and prostate cancer warrants further investigation, explains Dr Rangul.
Our results reaffirm physical activity as a key component of population-wide cancer prevention, and we need to consider recommendations about decreasing time spent sitting.
European oncologist Dr Jiri Kubes, a specialist in treating prostate cancer at the Proton Therapy Center in Prague, Czech Republic, said: Maintaining an active lifestyle and healthy diet are really important for overall health. Studies have shown how these can reduce the overall risk of cancer, too.
Can I Prevent Prostatitis
Prostatitis is a condition that causes your prostate gland to become swollen, tender, and inflamed. It can be quite painful, especially when you pee or ejaculate . The most common locations of pain were the perineum , testes , suprapubic area , and penis
Doctors arenât always sure what causes prostatitis. Common causes vary depending on whether it is acute vs. chronic and/or infectious vs inflammation. Sometimes, an infection in your urinary tract is to blame. Other times, itâs due to an injury or nerve damage. In many cases, doctors never find the cause.
Because of that, treatment for prostatitis can be a challenge. For some men, it can take months — or even years — to recover.
Thereâs no sure way to prevent getting this condition, but many small lifestyle changes can help keep your prostate gland healthy. They may also help to lower your risk of prostatitis. If you already have problems with your prostate, try these tips to ease your symptoms and keep your issue from getting worse.
Have good hygiene. Keep your penis and the area around it clean to prevent infection.
Stand up when possible. When you sit for long periods, it puts pressure on your prostate gland and inflames it over time. Try to avoid long bike rides and sitting down for too long.
Eat more fruits and veggies. Theyâre high in nutrients that can keep your body healthy and help you fight off infections and inflammation.
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The Tension Headache Of The Groin
Prostatitis is a benign but painful condition that causes inflammation of the prostate or surrounding area. While half of all men will experience it, many dont know what it is.
When prostatitis happens to younger men, it can be alarming and a little scary.
We asked UNC Medical Center urologist Eric Wallen, MD, to explain prostatitis and what can be done to fix it.
What Are The Types Of Prostatitis
Types of prostatitis include:
- Acute bacterial prostatitis : A UTI causes an infection in the prostate gland. Symptoms include fever and chills. You may experience painful and frequent urination or have trouble urinating. Acute bacterial prostatitis requires immediate medical treatment.
- Chronic bacterial prostatitis : Bacteria become trapped in the prostate gland, causing recurrent UTIs that are difficult to treat.
- Chronic pelvic pain syndrome, or CPPS : CPPS is the most common prostatitis type. Prostate gland inflammation occurs in approximately 1 out of 3 men. As the name implies, this type causes chronic pain in the pelvis, perineum and genitals.
- Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis : This condition causes prostate gland inflammation but no symptoms. You may learn you have this condition after getting tests to find the cause of other problems. For example, a semen analysis for infertility may detect asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis. This type doesnt need treatment.
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What Is Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis
Chronic nonbacterial prostatitis, also known as chronic pelvic pain syndrome, is a common condition that affects men. It causes pain and inflammation in the prostate, pelvis, and the lower urinary tract. The prostate gland is located right below the bladder in men. It produces fluid that helps transport sperm. In the United States, chronic nonbacterial prostatitis affects around 10 to 15 percent of men.
- sexual dysfunction
- genital pain after urination
Dont ignore any of the symptoms of chronic nonbacterial prostatitis. Instead, make an appointment with your doctor. There are a variety of treatments that may help.
National Institutes of Health describes four categories of prostatitis:
What Tests Diagnose Prostatitis What Are Prostate
Prostatitis is usually diagnosed by analyzing a urine sample and undergoing an examination of your prostate gland by your health care practitioner. This examination involves a digital rectal examination to palpate the prostate gland and feel for abnormalities of the gland. Occasionally, the physician may also collect and test a sample of the prostatic fluid.
Sometimes a prostate massage is performed to compare samples of the prostatic fluid both before and after this intervention has been performed. To perform this procedure, the doctor will stroke/massage the prostate gland during the digital rectal examination. Because there is the concern that this procedure can release bacteria into the bloodstream, this test is contraindicated in cases of acute bacterial prostatitis.
Additional tests that may be obtained include a complete blood count , an electrolyte panel, blood cultures, a swab of urethral discharge if present, and sometimes a prostate-specific antigen level. The PSA test, which is used as a screening test for prostate cancer, may also be elevated with prostatitis.
Other tests that may also be obtained include urodynamic tests , ultrasound imaging, computed tomography imaging, cystoscopy, and a prostate biopsy.
If recurring episodes of urinary tract infections and prostatitis occur, see your doctor for a more detailed evaluation of your genitourinary system for anatomic abnormalities, which may make you more prone to infections.
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