What is prostatitis?
Prostatitis means “inflammation of the prostate”, and is one of the most common reasons men visit the doctor in the western world. |
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What causes prostatitis?
The causes of prostatitis are not very well understood, although the three main types of prostatitis are based on generally accepted causes.
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Who gets prostatitis and who is at risk?
Acute bacterial prostatitis affects about two in every 10 000 men. Genetics do play a role. Black men are more at risk, as are men with a family history of prostatitis.
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Symptoms and signs of prostatitis
There are some general symptoms that are common to all forms of prostatitis. |
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How is prostatitis diagnosed?
Triple void urine specimens are collected – in other words the doctor will collect samples of initial stream, midstream, and post-stream urine (gathered through massage of the prostate).
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Can prostatitis be prevented?
Prostatitis cannot reliably be prevented, however lifestyle precautions – such as remaining fit and healthy – will be of benefit. |
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Treatment of prostatitis
Some treatments or therapies are common to all types of prostatitis.
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What is the outcome of treatment of prostatitis?
Cases of acute prostatitis are usually completely resolved by appropriate antibiotic treatment. A two-week course of antibiotics is usually sufficient. Recurrence or persistent infection is rare.
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When to call the doctor (prostatitis)
The sooner treatment is received, the better, particularly for acute forms of prostatitis. Contact your doctor as soon as you notice any symptoms. |
