Follow-up treatment for acute prostatitis?
Hello, Doctor.
About a month ago, I experienced acute prostatitis, which I suspect was caused by excessive masturbation leading to congestion.
I had pain in the penis and groin during urination, along with some body heat and cold sweats.
After visiting the hospital, I took medication for about a week and felt better (total medication duration was two weeks).
I asked the doctor if I should abstain for a while, and he said my condition wasn't very severe, so it was okay to ejaculate every two to three days.
For the past month, I have maintained that frequency of masturbation (previously I was doing it daily).
However, after masturbating, I often experience noticeable frequent urination, and occasionally I have slight groin pain or feel hot and sweaty, but usually, I feel fine the next day.
Overall, while my symptoms are not as severe as they were a month ago, these intermittent issues are still quite bothersome.
In summary, I would like to ask the doctor if, given my situation, it would be better for me to abstain for a longer period? Should I also continue taking medication for a longer duration? (I found information online suggesting that acute prostatitis typically requires abstinence for over a month, and I'm concerned that the hospital doctor may have been overly optimistic about my condition.
I'm worried about the possibility of it developing into chronic prostatitis...)
Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/19
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Is the information about abstinence obtained from hospital websites or general websites? Personally, I believe it is better to seek medical attention and obtain medication.
Additionally, there are many lifestyle and dietary considerations to keep in mind for prostatitis.
Attention to these factors is essential for a quicker recovery.
Reply Date: 2018/07/19
More Info
Managing post-acute prostatitis can be a challenging process, especially when symptoms persist after the initial treatment. Your experience of experiencing discomfort after ejaculation, such as frequent urination and mild pain in the groin area, indicates that your prostate may still be sensitive or inflamed. Here are some recommendations based on your situation:
1. Understanding Your Symptoms
It’s important to recognize that while your symptoms are not as severe as they were during the acute phase, they can still be indicative of ongoing inflammation or irritation of the prostate. The fact that you experience discomfort after ejaculation suggests that your prostate may still be reacting to sexual activity, which can lead to inflammation.
2. Frequency of Ejaculation
Your doctor’s advice to maintain a frequency of ejaculation every two to three days seems reasonable, especially if you are not experiencing severe symptoms. However, if you notice that this frequency leads to discomfort or exacerbates your symptoms, it may be beneficial to reduce the frequency further. Some studies suggest that abstaining from ejaculation for a period can help reduce inflammation and allow the prostate to heal. A period of abstinence of at least a few weeks may be worth considering, especially if you continue to experience symptoms.
3. Medication Management
Since you mentioned that you were on medication for two weeks and are considering whether to continue, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a longer course of anti-inflammatory medications or other treatments based on your current symptoms. It’s important not to self-medicate or prolong the use of antibiotics without medical guidance, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance and other complications.
4. Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to managing ejaculation frequency and medication, certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out your urinary system.
- Diet: Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as these can irritate the bladder and prostate.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in moderate physical activity to improve circulation and reduce stress, which can exacerbate symptoms.
- Warm Baths: Taking warm baths can help relieve pelvic discomfort and promote relaxation.
5. Monitoring Symptoms
Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur and their severity. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and triggers, allowing for more tailored treatment. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, further evaluation may be necessary.
6. Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential. They may recommend additional tests, such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or imaging studies, to rule out other conditions. If your symptoms persist, they may refer you to a urologist for specialized care.
7. Psychological Support
Chronic pelvic pain can be distressing and may lead to anxiety or depression. Consider seeking support from a mental health professional if you find that your symptoms are affecting your quality of life.
Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms are not as severe as during the acute phase, they still warrant attention. Consider reducing the frequency of ejaculation, consulting your healthcare provider about medication, and making lifestyle changes to support your recovery. Regular follow-up care is crucial to ensure that your condition does not progress to chronic prostatitis. Remember, each individual’s situation is unique, and personalized medical advice from your healthcare provider is invaluable in managing your health.
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