Nonbacterial Prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome is a common but painful condition. It affects 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. male population. It’s also the most common form of prostatitis and occurs in men of any age group. 

Nonbacterial Prostatitis is no laughing matter but in the immortal words of Jerry Stiller. In his role of Maury Ballstein in the movie Zoolander:

              “I’ve got a prostate the size of a honeydew and a head of bad memories!”

What is Chronic Non-Bacterial Prostatitis?

It’s the inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the prostate, unlike Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis which on tests reveals bacteria.  

Note: Some experts believe that Non-Bacterial Prostatitis sufferers have a bacterial infection. However, routine tests and examinations cannot see them. This is not proven.

What is the prostate?

First, the prostate gland is a walnut-sized part of the male reproductive system. So, its primary function is to produce fluid that nourishes semen. Secondly, it sits around the urethra and at the neck of the bladder. The urethra is the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.

So, why is this important to know? Because an inflamed (sore or irritated) prostate is hard to ignore. That is to say when the prostate is inflamed the urethra and bladder are also affected. In other words, the prostate can affect many other areas nearby. These symptoms cause a lot of distress to the individual. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of nonbacterial prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain are obviously very uncomfortable. However, it’s important to note, that these symptoms need to occur for more than three months. Here are typical areas of complaint:

• Pain in or around the penis
• Pain in or around the scrotum
• A dull ache throughout the lower abdomen
• Also, pain around the lower back
• Discomfort between or around the anus and scrotum
• Pain during or after ejaculation
• Also, pain in the urethra and penis during and after urination.
• Pain during bowel movements
• Urinating more often than usual
• Strong need and sudden urge to urinate
• Or blood in urine or semen. 

How is it diagnosed? 

A healthcare provider needs a few things to diagnose nonbacterial prostatitis. to start with:

• Medical history
• Physical exam 
• Medical tests. 

How Metro Medical Direct can help

Firstly, Dr. Zakhari will conduct a physical exam and will check for the following:

• Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
• Tender or swollen scrotum
• Discharge from the urethra
•  Perform a digital rectal exam

Secondly, he will order tests if necessary after the physical exam including:

• Blood work
• Urinalysis
• Urine Culture
• Semen analysis
• Prostatic Milking expresses fluid for lab analysis

Alternative treatments: Often times symptoms persist after getting “floxed”.

Medication is not always the best choice for individual patients. There are several alternative treatments that may also ease symptoms. For example: 

• Heat therapy
• Kegel exercises
• Myofascial release
• Relaxation exercises
• Acupuncture
• Prostate Massage

Prostate Massage

Lastly, there are other treatments available to relieve pain from nonbacterial prostatitis. However, studies are limited but one such treatment is prostate massage. This may provide therapeutic benefits by easing pressure and swelling caused by inflammation. As a result prostate massage can release fluids that build up. This eases tenderness and soreness. 

Subsequently, prostate massage also provides relief for effects that coincide with prostatitis. This often improves symptoms which include: 

• Erectile dysfunction (premature and delayed ejaculation)
• Urine flow issues

For more information on prostate massage

Check out Dr. Raymond’s article, Prostate Massage: A Taboo Practice With Therapeutic Benefits.

How Metro Medical Direct Can help you

Dr. Raymond Zakhari is a triple-board-certified nurse practitioner and provides comprehensive primary healthcare. His company Metro Medical Direct provides house calls to Manhattan and surrounding areas. He also offers Telehealth appointments. 

Metro Medical Direct can diagnose and treat your prostatitis. All from the comfort of your home.

So, call Doctor Zakhari at Metro Medical Direct at (917) 484-2709 or request an appointment online. You’ll be happy you took that first step to a new kind of care experience.

Also, check out Doctor Raymond Zakhari’s Podcast The Psychology of it All here. Also available on Apple Podcasts.

Ian Matonti is a freelance writer who’s passionate about spreading mental health awareness. Read his blog at www.madmentalhealth.com.