“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) is a common condition that affects men of all ages. It is a recurrent bacterial infection of the prostate gland, which causes inflammation and swelling, leading to symptoms such as painful urination, frequent urination, pain in the lower abdomen or back, and sexual dysfunction.
The bacteria that cause CBP can be found in the urinary tract, colon, and other areas of the body. The most common bacteria involved are Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. CBP can occur after a urinary tract infection, bladder infection, or from bacteria that migrate from the rectum to the prostate gland.
The diagnosis of CBP is made by clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. The most reliable test is a prostate massage, where a sample of prostate fluid is obtained and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The laboratory will culture the sample to identify the specific bacteria that are causing the infection.
The treatment of CBP involves antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. The choice of antibiotic will depend on the results of the culture and sensitivity tests. Antibiotics may need to be taken for several weeks or months to completely eliminate the bacteria. Pain management may also be necessary to manage the discomfort associated with the condition.
In some cases, a surgical procedure called a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) may be necessary to remove infected prostate tissue. This is typically only recommended in severe cases of CBP or in cases where antibiotics have been ineffective.
Prevention of CBP involves good hygiene practices, such as wiping front to back after using the bathroom, practicing safe sex, and avoiding prolonged periods of sitting. Individuals who have a history of urinary tract infections or other prostate issues should be monitored closely by a healthcare provider to prevent the development of CBP.