Is It Aseptic Prostatitis? Symptoms and Next Steps

Is this aseptic prostatitis?

Hello, Dr.
Liu.
Recently, I was hospitalized for three days due to an unknown inflammation and received four doses of antibiotics.
My symptoms included a burning sensation in the urethra during urination, slight pain in the bladder when straining, weakness in my limbs, and fever.
Other than that, I did not experience any significant abnormalities, such as pain, frequent urination, or difficulty urinating, and my urine output was normal.
Blood tests and urinalysis showed elevated white blood cell counts, but bacterial cultures did not yield significant results.
My prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level was 0.3 higher than normal.
The attending physician mentioned a "suspected" case of prostatitis, as the onset coincided with the end of a mild cold and about a week after I had stopped self-stimulation.
Although I feel normal now and do not have any discomfort, I am feeling anxious after researching online.
I am worried about self-stimulation possibly causing a recurrence.
Does this situation indicate non-bacterial prostatitis? If so, what should I do?

Xiao Yun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/12/09

Dr. Liu Jiaju reply Urology

Based on your symptoms, it is likely a urinary tract infection, and acute prostatitis is indeed a possibility.
It is recommended to drink plenty of water and avoid holding in urine as a preventive measure.
Currently, there is no research linking masturbation to prostatitis, so there is no need for concern.

Reply Date: 2012/12/09

More Info

Aseptic prostatitis, also known as chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS), is a condition characterized by pelvic pain and urinary symptoms without evidence of a bacterial infection. Given your symptoms and the results from your recent hospital stay, it is possible that you may be experiencing this condition. Let’s break down your situation and discuss the next steps.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Burning Sensation During Urination: This symptom can be indicative of prostatitis, but it can also be associated with other urinary tract issues. The fact that you experienced this alongside a fever and general malaise suggests that there may have been an inflammatory process at play.

2. Pain in the Bladder Area: Discomfort or pain in the bladder region during urination can be a sign of prostatitis. In your case, the pain seems to be mild and not accompanied by severe urinary retention or frequency, which is a positive sign.

3. Fatigue and Weakness: These systemic symptoms can occur with infections or inflammatory conditions. The elevated white blood cell count you mentioned supports the idea that your body was responding to some form of stress or infection.

4. Elevated PSA Levels: A PSA level that is slightly elevated (in your case, 0.3 above normal) can be concerning, but it is not definitive for prostate cancer, especially in the absence of other symptoms. It can be elevated due to inflammation or infection.

Diagnosis and Next Steps
Given that your symptoms have improved and you are not currently experiencing significant discomfort, it is essential to monitor your condition closely. Here are some recommendations:
1. Follow-Up with Your Urologist: It is crucial to maintain communication with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further tests, such as a prostate exam or imaging studies, to rule out other conditions.

2. Consider Lifestyle Modifications: Since you mentioned concerns about resuming sexual activity, it may be beneficial to ease back into it gradually. Pay attention to how your body responds. Avoiding excessive strain or activities that exacerbate your symptoms is advisable.

3. Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage symptoms. Additionally, warm baths or heat pads may provide relief.

4. Hydration and Diet: Staying well-hydrated can help dilute urine and may alleviate some urinary symptoms. Avoiding irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can also be beneficial.

5. Physical Therapy: Some patients find relief through pelvic floor physical therapy, which can help alleviate pain and improve function.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting any changes or triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in tailoring your treatment plan.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may align with aseptic prostatitis, it is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and develop a management plan. The absence of severe symptoms and the improvement you’ve experienced are encouraging signs. However, ongoing monitoring and lifestyle adjustments will be key to managing your condition effectively. If symptoms recur or worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention promptly.

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