Overview
Prostatitis is swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland. It can cause painful or difficult urination, as well as pain in the groin, pelvic area, or genitals. It affects men of all ages.
Symptoms
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating (dysuria)
- Difficulty urinating, such as dribbling or hesitant urination
- Frequent urination, particularly at night (nocturia)
- Pain in the abdomen, groin, or lower back
Types
There are four types of prostatitis: acute bacterial prostatitis, chronic bacterial prostatitis, chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS), and asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis.
Treatment
Medications
Antibiotics are the most common treatment for bacterial prostatitis. Alpha-blockers may also be prescribed to help relax the bladder neck.
Lifestyle Changes
Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as well as using a heating pad or soaking in a warm bath, can help relieve symptoms.