What is the difference between prostatitis and hyperplasia?

Prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia are two different prostate diseases, with the main differences being their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Prostatitis is mostly caused by infection or inflammation and manifests as frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination. ； Prostatic hyperplasia is an enlargement of the prostate tissue that causes pressure on the urethra. It is common in middle-aged and elderly men. Symptoms include difficulty urinating and thinning of the urine stream.

1. Differences in causes

Prostatitis is usually caused by bacterial infection, immune abnormalities or long-term congestion. Acute prostatitis may be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and chills. Prostatic hyperplasia is mainly related to aging and changes in hormone levels. It is a benign disease, but it may gradually aggravate urethral obstruction.

2. Symptoms

Prostatitis is mainly characterized by urinary discomfort and pelvic pain. Perineal swelling and pain or discomfort after ejaculation may occur. Prostatic hyperplasia is characterized by urination disorders, such as increased nocturia and interrupted urine lines. In severe cases, it can lead to urinary retention or hydronephrosis.

3. Patients with the disease

Prostatitis can occur in men of all ages, but is more common in young and middle-aged men. Prostatic hyperplasia is more common in men over 50 years old, and the incidence rate increases significantly with age. More than half of men over 60 years old have prostatic hyperplasia.

4. Inspection method

Prostatitis needs to be diagnosed through prostatic fluid examination, urine routine and bacterial culture. Prostatic hyperplasia is mainly evaluated through digital rectal examination and ultrasound examination, and the degree of obstruction is determined by urinary flow rate measurement.

5. Treatment principles

Prostatitis is mainly treated with anti-infection. Bacterial prostatitis requires the use of antibiotics such as levofloxacin tablets and cefixime dispersible tablets. Chronic patients can use warm water sitz baths. Mild cases of prostatic hyperplasia can be treated with tamsulosin sustained-release capsules, finasteride tablets and other drugs, while severe cases require transurethral resection of the prostate.

Both types of diseases require avoiding prolonged sitting, spicy food and excessive alcohol consumption. Patients with prostatitis should pay attention to keeping warm and having regular sex. Patients with prostatic hyperplasia need to monitor residual urine volume and be alert to the occurrence of acute urinary retention. No matter what kind of symptoms appear, it is recommended to seek medical advice as soon as possible to make a clear diagnosis to avoid delaying the condition with self-medication.