Nonbacterial prostatitis (also commonly referred to as chronic pelvic pain syndrome and chronic abacterial prostatitis) is a condition where there is severe and persistent pain and inflammation in the area around the prostate gland.
This is a condition commonly seen in older men with an enlarged prostate.
A prostate gland is a walnut-shaped reproductive organ located between a man’s bladder and penis. The prostate surrounds the urethra (a tube that carries urine from the bladder and through the penis) and makes seminal fluid.
If you have persistent pain in your pelvic region and would like to know if you have either nonbacterial prostatitis or chronic bacterial prostatitis, schedule a consultation and physical examination with our urology professionals at the Urology of Greater Atalanta.
Our highly skilled urologists provide state-of-the-art diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. So call or book an appointment online with us today!
What are the Causes of Nonbacterial Prostatitis?
Many conditions can cause nonbacterial prostatitis. Some of the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain syndrome include:
- Neurological issues in the urinary tract
- Prostate cancer
- Blockage in the prostate gland caused by a prostate infection
- Irritation caused by a backward flow of urine back into the prostate
- Irritation from chemicals
- Irritation from riding a bicycle
- Muscular problems in the pelvis
- Viruses
- Parasites
Nonbacterial Prostatitis Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms associated with nonbacterial prostatitis include:
- Pain in the perineal area (the area between the scrotum and the anus)
- Pain when ejaculating
- Painful urination (dysuria)
- Urinary tract infections
- Small amounts of blood in urine or semen
- Frequent urination
- A split urine stream
- A weak urine flow
- Erectile dysfunction
- Lower back pain
If you experience any of these symptoms listed above, seek care from a medical professional.
How is Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis Diagnosed?
In order to diagnose chronic nonbacterial prostatitis, your doctor will ask about your urinary symptoms and perform a physical examination.
Your doctor may also prescribe a diagnostic test to confirm whether or not you have prostatitis.
There are several diagnostic tests for chronic prostatitis, including:
- Urine tests
- Tests of the fluid from your gland
- A rectal exam (prostate exam)
Your doctor may also test you for sexually transmitted diseases which could be another cause of chronic prostatitis.
How is Nonbacterial Prostatitis Treated?
Nonbacterial prostatitis can be difficult to treat. Symptoms can last for weeks or months and can often come and go over the course of years. However, chronic prostatitis responds positively to certain treatment methods in many cases.
Methods used by healthcare professionals to treat chronic prostatitis include:
- Taking medications that relax the muscles surrounding the prostate gland
- Taking a course of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor
- Over-the-counter pain medications (ibuprofen)
If your symptoms are severe and are not improving, your doctor might suggest surgery to remove the prostate gland. This is in rare cases and usually only suggested if the patient is older.
What Can I Do to Take Care of Myself if I have Nonbacterial Prostatitis?
Some things that you can do yourself to help relieve the painful symptoms of nonbacterial prostatitis include:
- Reducing the time you spend sitting down
- Performing gentle exercise that doesn’t place too much stress on the pelvic area
- Acupuncture
- Taking a warm bath
- Taking a stool softener if you’re struggling with constipation
- Taking over the counter pain medication such as ibuprofen when needed
- Scheduling regular checkups with your doctor
How Can I Prevent Chronic Prostatitis?
Some things that can be done to prevent chronic pelvic pain syndrome include:
- Avoid sexually transmitted diseases.
- Keep your genital area clean by using good hygiene
- Seek prompt treatment for urinary tract problems
Conclusion
If you have pain in your pelvic area and would like to know if you might have chronic pelvic pain syndrome, schedule a consultation with our highly skilled urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta.
We have multiple locations throughout the state of Georgia. Call or book an appointment today!
