At Arkansas Urology, we provide comprehensive care for men experiencing prostatitis, a condition caused by inflammation of the prostate gland. Prostatitis can lead to a variety of uncomfortable urinary and pelvic symptoms. Our experienced physicians offer accurate diagnosis and effective treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. We welcome new patients and prioritize early detection to prevent complications and improve outcomes. As a leading provider for urological conditions, we’re here to help you find relief and protect your long-term health.
Prostatitis Diagnosis and Treatment Arkansas
What Is Prostatitis?
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate that often causes swelling or pain. There are three levels of prostatitis: nonbacterial prostatitis, acute bacterial prostatitis, and chronic prostatitis. It is different from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which involves an enlarged prostate, and may also present differently than a prostate infection.
Different Types of Prostatitis
- Nonbacterial prostatitis, or chronic pelvic pain syndrome, is the most common type of prostatitis. It may be caused by stress or irregular sexual activity. Symptoms include frequent urination, pain in the lower abdomen or back, and sometimes urinary incontinence.
- Acute bacterial prostatitis is a sudden bacterial infection marked by inflammation of the prostate. This is the least common form of prostatitis, but the symptoms are usually severe. Patients with this condition often have an acute urinary tract infection with increased urinary frequency and urgency, nighttime urination, and pain in the low back, pelvis, and genital area. Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and painful urination may also occur. A blood test may be used to help confirm infection.
- Chronic prostatitis is characterized by recurrent urinary tract infections in men. When symptoms do appear, they are generally less severe than in acute bacterial prostatitis and are rarely accompanied by fever. Patients may report disrupted sexual function or mild erectile dysfunction. This condition can affect any age group, but it is most common in young and middle-aged men.
Causes of Prostatitis
The causes of prostatitis vary depending on the type. Bacterial prostatitis is caused by a bacterial infection that may arise from a urinary tract infection or a blocked urinary flow. Chronic nonbacterial prostatitis may be linked to stress, nerve inflammation, pelvic floor muscle tension, or past infections. Risk factors include recent bladder infections, catheter use, immune system disorders, or an abnormal urinary tract.
Symptoms of Prostatitis
Prostatitis symptoms can vary in intensity and presentation. Common signs include:
- Pain or burning sensation during urination (dysuria)
- Frequent urge to urinate, particularly at night
- Difficulty starting urination or weak urine flow
- Pain in the abdomen, groin, or lower back
- Discomfort in the perineum (the area between the scrotum and rectum)
- Painful ejaculation or sexual dysfunction
- Flu-like symptoms in cases of bacterial prostatitis
- Blood in the urine or semen (less common)
Not every patient will experience all symptoms, and some may have no noticeable signs at all, especially in chronic nonbacterial cases. In some cases, symptoms may resemble those of interstitial cystitis or even kidney stones, which is why an accurate diagnosis is key.
Diagnosing Prostatitis
An accurate diagnosis is crucial because treatment differs depending on the type of prostatitis. It is also important to rule out other conditions such as urethritis, cystitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate cancer, or even bladder cancer. A patient’s age, family history, and other risk factors may guide diagnostic decisions.
To help your physician make an accurate diagnosis, several types of examinations may be used. A urine sample may be collected to determine whether the issue lies in the urethra, bladder, or prostate. A digital rectal exam (DRE) is often performed to assess the size and shape of the prostate gland. In some cases, a prostatic fluid analysis is done by expressing fluid into the urethra for testing.
Other diagnostic tools may include a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to detect infection or rule out cancer. If more detailed imaging is needed, a transrectal ultrasound or cystoscopy may be performed to closely examine the bladder and prostate. In certain situations, your doctor may recommend other tests to gather more information before beginning treatment.
Diagnosing Prostatitis
An accurate diagnosis is crucial because treatment differs depending on the type of prostatitis. It is also important to rule out other conditions such as urethritis, cystitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate cancer, or even bladder cancer. A patient’s age, family history, and other risk factors may guide diagnostic decisions.
To help your physician make an accurate diagnosis, several types of examinations may be used. A urine sample may be collected to determine whether the issue lies in the urethra, bladder, or prostate. A digital rectal exam (DRE) is often performed to assess the size and shape of the prostate gland. In some cases, a prostatic fluid analysis is done by expressing fluid into the urethra for testing.
Other diagnostic tools may include a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to detect infection or rule out cancer. If more detailed imaging is needed, a transrectal ultrasound or cystoscopy may be performed to closely examine the bladder and prostate. In certain situations, your doctor may recommend other tests to gather more information before beginning treatment.
Treatment Options for Prostatitis
Treatment depends on the type of prostatitis and the severity of symptoms.
Nonbacterial prostatitis is typically managed with anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants. Patients are often advised to take warm baths, stay hydrated, and avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and acidic beverages. Limiting physical activities such as bicycling may also help relieve symptoms.
Acute bacterial prostatitis usually requires a course of antibiotics lasting at least 14 days. In some cases, patients may need hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics, particularly if they are unable to urinate or if symptoms are severe. Catheterization might be necessary in such situations. Supportive care, including bed rest, stool softeners, and increased fluid intake, can also be part of the treatment plan.
Chronic prostatitis often involves a longer course of antibiotics, generally between four to 12 weeks. Approximately 75 percent of patients respond to this approach. If symptoms persist, a physician may recommend long-term, low-dose antibiotic therapy. In rare and extreme cases where scar tissue is present or symptoms are resistant to treatment, surgery on the urethra or prostate may be considered. In select situations, procedures may be performed using a local anesthetic. While not commonly used for prostatitis, technologies like aquablation therapy are available at Arkansas Urology for other prostate-related conditions.
Patients diagnosed with prostatitis should follow up regularly to ensure symptoms are improving and to adjust the treatment plan if needed. Our clinic is committed to providing comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient’s condition and response.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing discomfort when you urinate, pelvic pain, or symptoms of a urinary tract infection, don’t wait to seek help. Many men live with these symptoms longer than they should, thinking they’ll go away on their own. But untreated prostatitis can lead to serious complications—and the sooner you’re evaluated, the sooner you can start feeling better.
At Arkansas Urology, our compassionate team understands how disruptive these symptoms can be to daily life and sexual health. We’re here to provide answers, relief, and a personalized plan that works for you.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
You don’t have to manage prostatitis on your own. Arkansas Urology is ready to help with accurate diagnosis, proven treatment options, and expert support every step of the way. Schedule an appointment today and get back to living life on your terms.
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