what is the most common cause of prostatitis - #16792
I am a bit confused about my symptoms and really need some guidance. For the past few weeks, I've been experiencing some discomfort in my lower abdomen, and urinating has become kinda painful. At first, I thought it was just a urinary tract infection or something, but after a visit to the doc, they mentioned prostatitis. What is the most common cause of prostatitis though? They said it can be due to various reasons, like infections or inflammation, but I’m not clear on what that exactly means. I’m 45 and have never had any serious health issues before this, and it’s just so strange to feel this way. The doc suggested I might need to do some tests, but I want to understand, what is the most common cause of prostatitis that I could be dealing with? I mean, is it something I did or just unlucky? I’ve been reading online and it’s confusing; there’s mention of bacterial and non-bacterial prostatitis, which just adds to my worries. Is there any advice or insight on this? Like, to help me cope with this situation?
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Doctors’ responses
Hi Divya
Actually I am also bit confused due to ur name. Confusion is understandable because prostatitis only affects men, as the prostate gland is present in males. It’s best not to worry too much or overthink based on online searching.
Recommended Initial Tests USG KUB (Ultrasound Kidney, Ureter, Bladder) with post-void residual urine (PVRU) and prostate evaluation. Urine routine microscopy (RM) and culture. Serum PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen). Uroflowmetry.
These tests are basic and help clarify if there is prostate inflammation, infection, or any other urinary tract issue.
Dr Nikhil Chauhan, Urologist
Prostatitis can be frustratingly complex given its various causes, but getting familiar with its nuances might put your mind at ease. The most common cause of prostatitis tends to be bacterial, particularly when it comes to acute bacterial prostatitis. This type usually happens when bacteria from your urinary tract make their way to the prostate. In fact, a urinary tract infection (UTI) preceding this condition isn’t unusual, which aligns with your initial thoughts. Chronic bacterial prostatitis, on the other hand, emerges from recurrent or inadequate treatment of previous infections. That said, the most frequent form of prostatitis seen in men your age is actually chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS), also known as non-bacterial prostatitis. This type comprises about 90-95% of prostatitis cases and its exact source isn’t always clear. It can involve chronic pain in the lower pelvic area without a resulting bacterial infection being found. Thinking about what led to your symptoms, remember environments that can potentially stress the prostate or increase the risks like prolonged sitting or specific physical activities can sometimes play a role, though not definitively. Since there are various types, your doctor might suggest tests such as urine analysis or a prostate secretion culture to pinpoint the cause and hone in on the correct treatment approach. Most times, antibiotics are prescribed if bacterial infection is found, but if it’s CPPS, managing symptoms with medications, lifestyle modifications, or physical therapy might be recommended. Crucially, following up with your doctor and adhering to their treatment strategies will help determine the direction you need to take to improve and protect your health.
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