Living with Prostatitis: My Struggle
Greetings, everyone! I’m Max. At just 23 years old, I received a diagnosis of prostatitis. My ordeal began in November when the weather turned chilly. I experienced intense burning sensations and discomfort in my prostate and urethra, along with noticeable prostate enlargement, which led to severe pain and a troubling discomfort in my rectal area—clearly a consequence of the inflammation-related swelling. Every urination and ejaculation was a torment. Seeking relief, my urologist prescribed various medications: Tamsulosin hydrochloride (0.4 mg), Serenoa repens (saw palmetto) fruit extract (320 mg), Prostatic extract (20 mg) in rectal suppository form, and long-acting hyaluronidase (bovhyaluronidase azoximer) (3000 IU) suppositories. Unfortunately, none of these treatments provided any alleviation. I suffered through the harsh winter and spring months, finally seeing some improvement in summer 2024. While the symptoms didn’t fully disappear, they did become less intense. However, in the fall of that same year, the symptoms returned with a vengeance. I managed to endure until the summer of 2025, at which point I sought further treatment. My physician suggested a PCR test from the urethra, which revealed the presence of Gardnerella vaginalis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, and Mycoplasma hominis. A culture of my microflora also uncovered Staphylococcus hominis. In response, my doctor prescribed Macmiror and Doxycycline monohydrate (100 mg, two tablets per day), but sadly, these medications did not yield the expected results. My prostatitis seems particularly reactive to temperature changes; as the weather transitioned from a warm 30-35 degrees to a cooler 20 degrees, my symptoms intensified once more. The pain is excruciating, and it feels as if my prostate has swelled significantly again, leaving me with a constricted sensation inside. It’s genuinely tough to witness others enjoying their lives while I’m stuck in this predicament. I’ve forgotten what it feels like to be well. There have been many tears, and I find myself lost, unsure of what to do next. The antibiotics have failed to provide any help, and the healthcare system in my country is both inadequate and costly. With the price of medications soaring, my doctor seems limited to prescribing only antibiotics. I recently completed a round of antibiotics, rendering further bacterial testing pointless for now, yet the burden of my condition is becoming unbearable. After exhausting funds on unreliable healthcare, I’m down to my last 100 dollars. I’m desperate for relief and would be willing to pay anyone who might offer even a modicum of comfort for my suffering.
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 9:31:11 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the significant challenges you've faced with prostatitis, Max. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed when symptoms persist and interfere with your life, especially with the added stress of exploring treatment options. Let’s focus on identifying practical steps for relief and better management of your symptoms.
Main Points:
- Prostatitis can be persistent and may require a multifaceted approach for symptom relief.
- Lifestyle changes and supportive therapies can often complement medications and help ease discomfort.
Explanation:
Prostatitis, especially chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), can be complicated and does not always respond to conventional treatments like antibiotics. Many patients experience symptom flares due to various triggers, including stress, temperature changes, and diet. Given your experiences and the limitations you've encountered with medications, it’s beneficial to explore additional management options.
Next Steps:
-
Heat Therapy: Consider using a warm sitz bath or heating pad on your lower abdomen. Heat can help soothe discomfort and may reduce inflammation temporarily.
-
Dietary Adjustments: Start keeping a food diary to identify any potential dietary triggers. Some people find relief by avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which may irritate the bladder and prostate.
-
Pelvic Floor Exercises: Gentle pelvic floor muscle exercises, like Kegel exercises, can help relieve tension. Focus on relaxing the muscles in the pelvic area, as tightness can worsen symptoms.
-
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out irritants from your urinary system. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses a day, adjusting based on your body's signals.
-
Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga may help reduce anxiety and stress, which can contribute to symptom exacerbation. Try to dedicate a few minutes daily to these practices.
-
Go Slow with Treatments: If your doctor allows, consider taking a break from certain medications to see if your symptoms stabilize without them before reintroducing any treatments.
If symptoms persist or worsen, documenting your experiences and symptoms will be vital for future discussions with your healthcare provider. You might also consider seeking a second opinion from a urologist who specializes in chronic pelvic pain and prostatitis if that's an option for you.
Remember, you're not alone in this, and many resources and community support networks can provide additional emotional and practical support. If you're feeling particularly distressed, don’t hesitate to reach out to local support groups or online communities focused on prostatitis, where you can share your experiences and gain insight from others in similar situations.
Related Questions
Blood in Urine: Seeking Guidance
A 20-year-old female weighing 140 pounds has not been taking any medications or supplements, and has no prior or current medical conditions. Her menstrual cycle last occurred two weeks ago. While at work, she observed blood in her urine, which appeared light red but darker than pink. Accompanying this symptom, she has experienced some abdominal discomfort. Notably, there was no evidence of blood on her underwear, only when she urinated. Additionally, she felt a moment of lightheadedness upon noticing the blood, which has since subsided; she attributes this feeling to her anxiety about the potential seriousness of the situation. Given these symptoms, what could be the likely cause? She is uncertain whether to visit the emergency room or to wait until urgent care is available tomorrow for a consultation. As she recently relocated and does not have a primary care physician yet, her anxiety is heightened.
Exploring Endolymphatic Hydrops: Could This Be My Condition?
34 years old / Female Current weight: 165 lbs Navigating the challenges of motherhood In early December 2025, I caught a cold. By mid-December, my right ear felt blocked, but I attributed it to the cold virus. As New Year approached, I experienced another cold, which coincided with an onset of ringing in my ears. Disturbingly, sounds started to seem altered from the affected ear, accompanied by a persistent fullness in that area. Additionally, I noticed twitching of my eye and swelling in the salivary gland on the same side. My primary care physician prescribed a decongestant and Flonase; however, because I am currently breastfeeding, I hesitated to take the medications as directed. On January 27, I was evaluated by an ear, nose, and throat specialist, who requested a hearing assessment the following day. The results indicated that I had sensorineural hearing loss affecting my low-frequency hearing range (250 Hz to 500 Hz). The doctor prescribed a steroid with the hope of addressing the issue promptly. Now on day 10 of steroid treatment, I have experienced significant relief. Remarkably, I've noticed a substantial amount of thick, putty-like mucus clearing from my nasal passages. The pressure in my ear has subsided, and sounds are returning to normal, though I still perceive a slight ringing — possibly just a touch of hearing loss remains. What concerns me is whether ongoing sinus congestion could be the root of these symptoms or if I might genuinely be dealing with endolymphatic hydrops. Notably, I have not experienced any episodes of dizziness. In the evenings, I tend to feel considerable pressure building on the right side of my head, almost as if my sinuses are becoming blocked once more. I would greatly appreciate any insights or advice on this matter, as I find myself in a state of uncertainty regarding my condition.
Experiencing Occasional Hematuria: Seeking Guidance
Greetings, medical professionals. I appreciate your assistance with the following situation. **Patient Overview:** - **Age:** 47 - **Gender:** Male - **Height:** 6 feet - **Weight:** 202 pounds **Symptoms Overview:** Approximately three months ago, I began to observe small traces of blood in my urine. It's a minimal amount, usually just a couple of drops occurring at the end of urination. I do not suffer from any pain, fever, chills, or urinary difficulties. Initially, I suspected that this could be linked to kidney stones or exercise-induced hematuria, as I maintain a rigorous exercise routine spanning two hours daily, seven days a week. My workouts alternate between strength training 3-4 times a week and cardio exercises, including rowing, treadmill use, the elliptical, stair climbing, and jump rope. After several weeks, I also observed tiny tissue-like fragments in my urine, prompting me to consult a doctor, as I suspected a urinary tract infection. Although I have an enlarged prostate, my physician considered it a benign issue, attributing the swelling to the potential chain reaction of a UTI leading to bladder infection and subsequently causing prostate inflammation. **Diagnostic Tests and Outcomes:** I underwent a comprehensive metabolic panel, which included tests for glucose, BUN, creatinine, and various electrolytes. All results fell within normal ranges, with the exception of a low BUN/creatinine ratio (8). Additionally, I received a Creatine Kinase (CPK) test, which returned normal results. A complete blood count (CBC) with differential was conducted, showing all parameters, including WBC, RBC, and hemoglobin, to be normal. Urinalysis reflected negative findings for GLU, BLO, NIT, and LEU. However, it indicated a small amount of bilirubin, a ketone level of 15, a specific gravity of 1.025, a pH of 5.5, and a protein level at 30. Uric acid levels were 8.1, within normal limits, though an inflammatory marker was mildly elevated. A sedimentation rate (Westergren) displayed a slight elevation at 19 (normal range is up to 15). A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast yielded several findings: - **Lung Bases:** A few small pulmonary micronodules were noted, but otherwise clear. - **Liver, Spleen, and Pancreas:** All appeared normal without lesions. - **Kidneys:** Normal with no stones or masses. - **GI Tract:** The stomach was mildly distended, but otherwise normal with stool presence noted in the colon. - **Pelvis and Vascular Structures:** Solid organs and vessels appeared normal. - **Other Findings:** Prominent inguinal lymph nodes were potentially reactive, alongside a small left inguinal hernia. **Follow-Up Treatment:** Following these evaluations, my physician prescribed sulfamethoxazole for a duration of 28 days. I adhered to the regimen fully, and while undergoing treatment, all symptoms subsided completely. However, this occurred about a month ago, concluding in late December. **Current Situation:** This evening, after my workout, I noticed the return of blood traces in my urine. While I do not experience pain, I have difficulty with bowel movements, feeling persistently constipated regardless of food intake. This change coincided with a mild tearing sensation during exercise on the adductor machine. Additionally, I have developed a reddish rash on both arms, which had resolved during the antibiotic treatment but has now reappeared. Previously, this rash was effectively treated with prednisone, leaving me unsure if this is connected to my earlier symptoms. **Concerns:** I worry that standard medical tests might overlook a significant issue affecting my prostate, colon, or urinary system. My insurance policy does not cover colonoscopy or prostate evaluation, and I have been advised to consider these procedures, though they would cost nearly $7,000 out of pocket. While I understand the necessity of these assessments if needed, I prefer to seek a second opinion before committing to such expenses. It's important to note that there is a family history of cancer, primarily lung cancer. I welcome any advice or insight into my case and will provide any additional details you may require.
Gene Testing Outcomes Suggest Elevated Risk for MPN
A 27-year-old male of Irish heritage recently conducted a commercial gene analysis, and here are the findings: - **Rs12340895 (C;G)** Result Interpretation: "Doubles the likelihood of developing V617F-positive MPN." - **Rs3780374 (A;G)** Result Interpretation: "Significantly raises the probability of V617F-positive MPN manifestation." Based on my research, it appears that having these two genetic markers indicates a strong predisposition to this particular form of cancer. What steps should I consider taking to either prepare for or potentially postpone the onset of this condition? Should I discuss these findings with my healthcare provider? My studies suggest there isn’t a definitive cure for this condition.
Unexpected Head Pain During Dance Moves
This may seem humorous, yet I'm genuinely interested in uncovering the cause of this peculiar experience. I’m a 34-year-old female. A few months back, hoping to elevate my mood and get my body moving away from the grip of depression, I decided to play some music and dance in my living room. In a moment of misguided enthusiasm, I attempted to twerk. It's worth noting that I have a long history of lower back discomfort, I've never attempted to twerk before, and I lack the rhythm, flexibility, or skills typical of proficient dancers. As I embarked on my very first serious twerk attempt, a sudden jolt of agony shot through my forehead, nearly causing me to lose consciousness. It felt like being struck with a hammer. I was momentarily blinded by the pain, convinced I might have suffered an aneurysm or something equally serious. This intense sensation only lasted for about a minute, during which I dramatically considered that I might be the first individual to perish from twerking. You might think it was just a case of me bumping my head while trying to dance away my sadness; however, I assure you that this wasn’t the case. Just as abruptly as the pain struck, it dissipated. In that moment, I promised myself to never attempt twerking again. Fast forward to today, and I experienced a similar incident again—not the twerking, but the sudden stabbing pain in my skull. I was engaged in some back stretches, particularly the cat-cow pose, and during the cow portion, I once more felt an intense sharp pain in the center of my forehead, just above my right eye. Stars filled my vision, and everything seemed slightly distorted. This sensation vanished within seconds, leaving me puzzled. What is causing this reaction? How do my forehead and lower back relate in this context? It's baffling! I genuinely seek any insights that might help explain this mysterious phenomenon.