Prostatitis is a rapidly developing inflammation or infection of the prostate and is diagnosed as one of three types: acute bacterial prostatitis, chronic bacterial prostatitis, or chronic, non-bacterial prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Bacterial infections such as a urinary tract infection or sexually transmitted infections can cause this type of inflammation.
Your Urology of North Florida experts may perform a urinalysis, prostatic fluid analysis and digital rectal exam to identify prostatitis. Treatment options may include the following depending upon your diagnosis:
Medication: Typically, this infection can be treated with antibiotics, pain, and fever medicines, as well as stool softeners, fluids, and rest. If you are unable to urinate or need to take antibiotics intravenously, you may be admitted to the hospital. Treatment may last several weeks.
Medication: Chronic prostatitis will require antibiotics for a longer period, possibly up to 12 weeks and beyond. Sometimes low-dose antibiotics are prescribed long term.
Surgical treatment: Sometimes the physician will recommend the surgical removal part of the prostate to correct blockage of the urine flow.
Medication: The physician may prescribe alpha blockers like tamsulosin, which relax the muscle tissue in the prostate and reduce difficulties urinating. Physicians may also prescribe medications that reduce prostate size, such as finasteride. Anti-inflammatory medicines may also help.
Lifestyle changes: Avoid spicy foods, caffeinated or carbonated drinks or acidic foods that contain vitamin C. Heat (soaking in a warm bath), regular exercise and stress reduction may also help.
© 2024 Urology of North Florida.
