Home Health Center Prostatitis

Prostatitis


What is Prostatitis?

Prostatitis refers to the inflammation of the prostate gland. This walnut-sized gland is located just below the bladder in men, and is responsible for producing semen, the fluid which transports the sperm. Prostatitis leads to swelling, pain and difficulty in urination. It may also cause pain in the genitals and flu-like symptoms. There are various factors that can cause this condition. Prostatitis that occurs due to bacterial infection may be treated successfully. But in many cases, the cause of inflammation may remain unidentified. The onset of prostatitis may be sudden or gradual and the symptoms may subside on their own or with treatment. There are certain types of prostatitis which may become chronic and recurring.

The prostate gland plays an important role in the male reproductive system. Almost 70 percent of the fluid which is ejaculated during sexual intercourse is produced in this gland. This secretion combines with the sperm which are produced in the testicles. Another important function of the prostate is to contract during ejaculation so that there is no backward flow of semen into the bladder. Since the prostate gland is located near the urinary tract, the symptoms of prostatitis are usually associated with the bladder. Individuals with prostatitis often experience discomfort while urinating, changes in urine flow and more frequent urination. 
Prognosis
Types
References
  1. Richard Chen, J.Curtis Nickel, Acupuncture ameliorates symptoms in men with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome, Urology, Volume 61, Issue 6, June 2003, Pages 1156-1159, ISSN 0090-4295, 10.1016/S0090-4295(03)00141-9.
  2. V. Steenkamp, M.C. Gouws, M. Gulumian, E.E. Elgorashi, J. van Staden, Studies on antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of herbal remedies used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostatitis, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 103, Issue 1, 3 January 2006, Pages 71-75, ISSN 0378-8741, 10.1016/j.jep.2005.07.007. (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874105004630)