|  | Conditions Treatments | Hormone Issues

Prostatitis Cures

Prostatitis--inflammation of the prostate--may not be completely curable, depending on its type. There are two types of prostatitis: bacterial and chronic. Bacterial prostatitis, although it can recur, is usually treated with antibiotics. Chronic non-bacterial prostatitis has a number of available treatments. These treatments won't cure prostatitis but will make symptoms managable or eliminate symptoms altogether.

  1. Antibiotics

    • If prostatitis is caused by bacteria, antibiotics are the cure. Depending on the severity of the bacterial prostatitis, oral antibiotics may be prescribed or the patient may be admitted to the hospital to receive antibiotic injections. Antibiotic treatment can last from two to four weeks. In cases of chronic bacterial prostatitis, antibiotic treatment may be continued past four weeks, or treatment may be repeated.

    Lifestyle Changes

    • Lifestyle changes can help lessen pain in men who have non-bacterial prostatitis. Taking warm baths and sitting on a cushion or pillow are two ways to ease prostate inflammation. Bicyclists can cut down on riding time or install a split bicycle seat. Diet changes can also help, like reducing alcohol and caffeine intake and eliminating or cutting down on spicy or acidic foods.

    Alpha Blockers

    • Alpha blockers are a type of prescription medication that relaxes the muscles in the prostate. Specifically, the alpha blockers work on the muscle area where the prostate joins up with the bladder. Relaxing these muscles makes it possible to urinate without feeling painful symptoms. Side effects of alpha blockers include lowered blood pressure and headaches.

    Painkillers

    • Painkillers are a useful weapon against prostatitis pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin are especially helpful, as they work to reduce inflammation as well as block pain. Taking too many NSAIDs can be harmful, though, as they can irritate the lining of the stomach and cause bleeding when taken in large amounts.

    Prostatic Massage

    • Prostatic massage is used as a treatment for non-bacterial prostatitis, although it's uncertain whether the method actually relieves prostatitis symptoms effectively. The massage is similar to what a patient experiences during a prostate check-up, with a doctor inserting a finger into the rectum. Gloves and lubrication are used as part of the process.

Hormone Issues - Related Articles