Prostatitis symptoms are most common in men between the ages of 35 and 50 years old.  Approximately 10 % of the male population (between the ages of 20 and 74) show symptoms of Prostatitis.

Approximately half of all men will develop symptoms of Prostatitis at some point in their lives

Studies show that patients who have been diagnosed with Prostatitis will have the same mental health affect as patients with diabetes mellitus and congestive heart failure.

Non-bacterial Prostatitis may be caused by fastidious organisms, which cannot be cultured routinely from a urinary specimen.

Typically, patients who present with non-bacterial Prostatitis are given a two-week trial of antibiotics.  If the patient improves, they are typically advised to continue therapy for four to six more weeks.

Ibuprofen may be used to treat painful symptoms.

Surgery may be an option for some patients.

The patient may also be advised to stay away from certain foods, which are thought to be an irritant to the bladder.  This includes alcohol, cranberry juice and cranberries, lemon juice, carbonated beverages like sodas, spicy foods, coffee, acidic foods and chocolate.

Patients are typically advised to steer clear of these potential irritants and to limit to consumption of them one at a time in order to determine if their symptoms will improve.  This does not work for all patients.

Experts say that avoiding specific activities will not necessarily improve symptoms.  On the other hand, relatively frequent ejaculation may help to improve symptoms.  The idea behind this is that it follows natural drainage of secretions from the prostate.  Some experts also suggest frequent prostate massage in order to promote relief of tension in the pelvic floor.

If symptoms subside, patients do not need additional follow-up.  If symptoms do not go away, a periodic evaluation will be necessary.  If the patient is 50 years old or older, he should have routine examinations annually, including a rectal examination and a PSA test.

Patients are typically advised to limit stress in their life as this can exasperate symptoms.

The prostate is an important part of a man’s anatomy.  In order for it to work properly, it needs male hormones, known as androgens, which are responsible for the male sex characteristics.  The main male hormone is testosterone.  Testosterone is produced by the testicles.  Some male hormones are produced by the adrenal glands.  Dihydrotestosterone regulates the prostate.