Prostatitis is a commonly occurring urological disease in men, characterized by inflammation of the prostate gland, which causes symptoms such as pain and urinary dysfunction. It is primarily known to be caused by infection with intestinal bacteria such as E. coli and enterococci, or by sexually transmitted bacteria such as Chlamydia and Mycoplasma.
Bacterial prostatitis can have its cause identified through urine tests or bacterial culture tests. Infections caused by sexually transmitted bacteria can be accurately diagnosed via PCR tests of urine and prostatic fluid. However, non-bacterial prostatitis can arise from various causes other than bacterial infection, such as fatigue, stress, excessive alcohol consumption, and pelvic floor muscle pain. In other words, identifying the exact cause is often difficult.
For bacterial prostatitis, the core of treatment is to eliminate the causative bacteria through antibiotics. Typically, antibiotics must be taken for more than 4 weeks, and consistent management is necessary until symptoms improve. On the other hand, antibiotic treatment is often not effective for non-bacterial prostatitis. In such cases, symptoms can be alleviated through customized treatments such as prostate massage, magnetic field therapy, biofeedback, behavioral therapy, physical therapy, and thermotherapy.
Additionally, stress management, appropriate exercise, and regular lifestyle habits can also help alleviate the symptoms of non-bacterial prostatitis.
Director Lee Chang-ki of Goldman Urology Clinic's Incheon Branch stated, "To prevent prostatitis and alleviate its symptoms, it is necessary to improve daily lifestyle habits, especially by reducing excessive alcohol and caffeine intake and avoiding sitting for long periods." He added, "Prostatitis is a disease that can affect anyone, but it can be sufficiently managed with appropriate examinations and customized treatment. If you experience persistent stinging pain when urinating, it is a wise choice to visit a urology department without hesitation to receive a precise diagnosis and personalized treatment."