Treatment for Prostatitis

Prostatitis is a group of disorders affecting the prostate, a small organ that is part of the male reproductive system. Common symptoms of prostatitis include burning or painful urination, difficulty urinating, the urgent need to urinate, frequent nighttime urination, pelvic pain and painful ejaculations. The condition can be difficult to diagnose because men often experience different symptoms and the symptoms can be mistaken for another medical condition. Prostatitis is more common in young and middle-aged men.

Antibiotics

• When prostatitis is the result of a bacterial infection, antibiotics are commonly used as treatment. A typical course of antibiotics is two- to four-weeks, and it is important to take all the prescribed medication even after symptoms disappear. In severe cases, men may need to be admitted to the hospital to receive injected or intravenous antibiotics. After being discharged, a full course of oral antibiotics will usually be prescribed for use at home.

Alpha Blockers

• Alpha blockers are another type of medication used to treat prostatitis, typically chronic prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain caused by a prostate problem. Alpha blockers relax the neck of the bladder and the muscles that connect the bladder to the prostate. Commonly prescribed alpha blockers include alfuzosin (brand name Uroxatral) and doxazosin (brand name Cardura). Alpha blockers can help alleviate bothersome symptoms of chronic prostatitis such as painful urination or a burning sensation during urination.

Prostate Massage

• Some men with chronic prostatitis will benefit from prostate massage to help relieve some of the bothersome symptoms of the condition. A prostate massage is performed by a doctor or other health-care professional and is similar to a rectal exam. The doctor will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to massage the prostate, providing some relief from the condition.

Pain Relievers

• Men with prostatitis may experience some relief from the condition simply by taking common pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin. In some cases, your doctor may be able to prescribe a stronger pain reliever. When taking over-the-counter pain killers, make sure to discuss your dosage with your doctor to help prevent the dangerous side effects of overuse, including intestinal bleeding, abdominal pain and liver problems.