The most common signs and symptoms

Prostatitis can cause a wide range of symptoms that can differ from man to man.

• A need to urinate often during the day and night (frequent urination)
• An urgent need to urinate (urge incontinence)
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Weak or slow urine stream
• Intermittent urine stream
• Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder
• Pain or burning sensation when urinating
• Pain in the pelvic region (genitals, groin, lower abdomen, or lower back)
• Difficult or painful ejaculation
• Fever and chills if the prostatitis is acute
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Presence of blood in the urine or semen (rare)

Diagnosis

If you notice any unusual symptoms or if the doctor suspects you of having this condition, the doctor may suggest you undergo certain tests. These tests vary depending on the type of prostatitis, but may include the following:

• A rectal examination to ascertain sensitivity and size of the prostate
• An abdominal examination
• A urine test and culture of bacteria found in the urine
• A blood test and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test
• Imaging using ultrasound or X-ray

Treatments are dependent on the prostatitis diagnosis and may vary from one man to another.

• Antibiotics: to treat bacterial infections
• Intravenous antibiotics: to treat acute bacterial infections;
• Pain medication;
• Muscle relaxants: to reduce bladder contraction. They can decrease urine leakage and the urgent need to urinate;
• Alpha-adrenergic blockers: to relax muscles around the prostate, to relieve pressure on the urethra, and reduce symptoms affecting urine flow. They are fast-acting (24-72 hours) on urinary symptoms;
• 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors: to reduce the size of the prostate if urinary disorders stem from prostatitis linked to BPH (enlarged prostate);
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• Transurethral resection of the prostate to drain an abscess.

Helpful lifestyle changes

• Drink plenty of water;
• Avoid alcohol, soft drinks, and drinks containing caffeine, such as tea and coffee, that can irritate your bladder and make symptoms worse;
• Eat a healthy diet;
• Sit comfortably if you need to sit for a long period of time;
• Be active, it can reduce pain;
• Avoid cycling or any other activities that put pressure on the perineum as it can make symptoms worse;
• Do pelvic floor muscle exercises: these muscles help control urination. Doing these exercises strengthens your muscles and helps to reduce urinary symptoms.

Supportive treatments to help relieve symptoms

There is no scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of these methods in relieving symptoms, but many men did notice an improvement in their conditions.

• A prostate massage by the doctor;
• Taking antidepressants;
• Treatments for sexual problems (use of medications to address erectile dysfunction).

Complementary therapies

These therapies can have a positive effect on your well-being:

• Acupuncture
• Massotherapy
• Reflexology
• Aromatherapy
• Hypnotherapy

Relaxation techniques

Relaxation techniques may help you relax and feel more comfortable:

• Meditation
• Yoga
• Deep breathing
• Warm baths