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The Prostatitis Foundation estimates that about 50% of men in the United States experience prostatitis during their lifetime. The chances of prostate problems and erectile dysfunction are far greater in men over the age of 50.
Effects of Prostatitis in Men
Prostatitis is one of the leading causes of erectile dysfunction in men over 50. This inflammatory disorder often results in symptoms of urinary retention, groin pain, erectile dysfunction and depression.
Several cases of prostatitis are a result of bacterial infection in the prostate gland. However, other cases are under clinical investigation and may be difficult to diagnose.
Non-bacterial prostatitis is also common among older men. Although, there are cases of acute and chronic prostatitis in men over 40 to 50 years.
An E-coli bacteria or trauma from a prostate biopsy can cause acute prostatitis. On the other hand, chronic prostatitis develops gradually and generally continues for a longer time. Symptoms of chronic prostatitis include hematuria, dribbling urine, low-grade fever and urinary incontinence.
Being the most common type of prostatitis, nearly 35% of men over 50 years have chronic prostatitis. Post-ejaculatory pain is the hallmark sign of this type of prostatitis.
Experts also reveal that prostate problems can lead to erectile dysfunction and impotence. In addition, around 91% of people in the United States are suffering from serious symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Prostate Exams for Prostatitis
Several prostate exams include urinalysis, urine culture, semen analysis and culture of prostate secretions. The physician will decide for the right test depending on the extent of discomfort and duration of pain.
A urologist is highly recommended for urinary discomfort. Oftentimes, physicians will prescribe antibiotics, stool softeners and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Prostatitis can eventually lead to erectile dysfunction in later stages. Therefore, it is important to ask your doctor about measures to prevent prostatitis and erectile dysfunction.
