Treatment for Prostatitis

Overview

The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland that sits at the base of the penis and makes the liquid part of semen. When it becomes inflamed, due to a bacterial infection or some other cause, it can become painful and pinch the urethra, making it difficult to urinate. Inflammation of the prostate, also known as prostatitis, can be difficult to treat if the cause is a bacterial infection because many antibiotics cannot easily gain access to the prostate.

Step 1

Take antibiotics. Many cases of prostatitis, the American Academy of Family Physicians notes, are caused by a bacterial infection. Cases of acute bacterial prostatitis can usually be treated with a combination or trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, or antibiotics from the tetracycline or quinolone family. Acute bacterial prostatitis usually requires at least a 14-day course of antibiotics, and some doctors may recommend antibiotic use for up to four weeks. If the inflammation does not subside after this shorter course of treatment, daily antibiotic use for up to six months may be needed.

Step 2

Take over-the-counter pain relievers. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can help relieve some of the pain of prostatitis, the Mayo clinic notes. Although these drugs can be purchased without a prescription, patients should talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using these medications on a regular basis to avoid taking too high of doses of these compounds.

Step 3

Take alpha-blockers, as prescribed by your physician. Alpha-blockers are prescription drugs that can help relax the muscles around the bladder. Because prostatitis can make it difficult for urine to flow out of the bladder, these medications can help relieve some of the urinary symptoms and pain from prostatitis. Commonly prescribed alpha-blockers include doxazosin and alfuzosin.

Step 4

Have your prostate massaged. In some cases, a prostate massage can help relieve some of the swelling caused by an inflamed prostate, the American Urological Association Foundation explains. With this procedure, a gloved and lubricated finger is inserted into the rectum where it can then palpate and squeeze the prostate. Because of the delicacy of the lining of the rectum, this procedure should be performed by a trained professional.

Step 5

Avoid spicy and acidic foods. Consumption of these kinds of foods can exacerbate prostatitis.

Step 6

Sit on a pillow or a cushion. Sitting on soft surfaces can help relieve some of the pain of an inflamed prostate. Patients may also need to avoid sitting in ways that put pressure on the prostate and should not sit on a bicycle seat.

Step 7

Soak in a warm bath. This can help relax the tissue around the prostate and relieve inflammation.

source : livestrong.com