Prostatitis is the general term used to describe inflammation of the prostate. Because it is so general, it does not fully describe the range of symptoms that can be associated with prostate inflammation. The four types of prostatitis that are recognized are pain, problems with urination, general health problems, such as feeling tired and depressed, and even sexual dysfunction. It generally affects mostly young and middle-aged men, and can be difficult for Doctors to diagnose because the symptoms could be signs of another disease.
Diagnosing prostatitis is done by ruling out other medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms and then determining what kind, if any, you have. A physical exam usually includes checking the area for soreness and a rectal exam of your prostate. Test samples of your urine and semen for bacteria and white blood cells may also be used to help with the diagnosis. Your doctor may also want to carry out a prostate specific antigen test, or PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) level. A culture will determine bacterial growth in the urinary tract while an inflammation is defined by the presence of WBCs (White Blood Cells) in urine.
Prostatitis has been subdivided into a number of categories, but commonly accepted variations of the disease include non-bacterial, acute, chronic and asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis.
The most common type is Non-Bacterial. Symptoms can include pain in the lower abdomen or lower back area and frequent and painful urination. Causes may be stress and irregular sexual activity.
Acute Bacterial can be the result of a STD (a sexually transmitted disease), bacteria or a virus. Some symptoms are low back pain, frequent and painful urination, weak stream when you are urinating, fever and chills, and not urinating often enough.
Chronic can be bacterial or an inflammation of the prostate. Symptoms can include bladder infections that keep recurring, continual affliction in the lower abdomen or back and urinating excessively.
Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis usually does not require treatment.
The treatments vary and will depend on the type of prostatitis your doctor may find. Start now by eating healthier and exercising regularly. Prevention is the best remedy. If you are in your 40s, you can start now. Don't wait until you are in your 50s to take care of yourself!