Who gets CP/CPPS?
Some estimates state that 15% of men will experience CP/CPPs during their lifetime. Symptoms include pain, cramping, or throbbing pain in and across the pelvis and genitals. CP/CPPs might be related to erectile dysfunction and painful ejaculation. Many men with the disorder often complain of frequent and urgent urination and a burning sensation.
Although CP/CPP problems are real, the underlying cause is usually unknown. “There hasn't been much recent research in this area, so experts often differ on the possible causes,” says Dr. O'Leary.
“Symptoms can also be significantly different for the same underlying problem. For example, similar discomfort may accompany a documented prostate infection, inflammation without infection, neurological dysfunction, or an imbalance of microorganisms in the gland that we are just learning about. Or some combination of these.”
Another reason to diagnose CP/CPPS is that symptoms can come and go. The pain may go away suddenly, only to return weeks and even months later. When symptoms reappear, they might be more severe than before, or they might be recent.
How to diagnose CP/CPPS
Even with the challenges of diagnosis, doctors can discover CP/CPP by ruling out all other possible causes. Your doctor will first ask inquiries to assess pain levels, urinary symptoms, and quality of life, including any recent forms of hysteria or depression. The doctor will perform a physical exam, including a rectal exam, and frequently order urine and blood tests to search for signs of infection and check kidney function.
Some doctors use a system called an appointment as a part of the diagnosis process by rating an individual's symptoms, severity, and placement. The results can discover possible underlying causes and help discover treatment options.
Appointment means
- Urinary symptoms
- Psychological symptoms, akin to anxiety, depression or stress
- Organ-related symptoms (for instance, those affecting only the prostate)
- Symptoms related to infection
- Neurologic symptoms
- Muscle and pelvic floor tenderness.
“If your diagnosis doesn't show a specific problem that could explain your symptoms, CP/CPPS is a possible diagnosis,” says Dr. O'Leary.
Trying to treat
There is not any cure for CP/CPPS, so the goal of treatment is to administer the condition and keep it in remission. “Until we know more, treatment is a trial-and-error approach,” says O'Leary. “Here are some strategies that are commonly used to relieve and manage specific CP/CPPS symptoms. It's common to try more than one before finding something that works. A combination of treatments may also be necessary.” You just need to take care of the pain.”
Antibiotics. Even with normal urine and blood tests, doctors may prescribe a course of antibiotics since the symptoms may very well be from a prostate infection.
Alpha blockers. Alpha blockers akin to tamsulosin (Flomax) may also help chill out the prostate and the muscles around it and across the base of the bladder.
Anti-inflammatory Over-the-counter or prescription-strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, akin to ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve), can sometimes help relieve flare-ups. Be sure to follow the label's dosage recommendations.
Myofascial release therapy. Pelvic floor muscle strain is a possible explanation for CPPS, and myofascial release therapy, a delicate form of massage, helps reduce tension within the pelvic floor muscles and surrounding tissues.
Shock wave therapy. With shock wave therapy, a tool sends sound or pressure waves to the affected area to stimulate the body's natural healing process. For CP/CPPS, it could help reduce inflammation and pain, improve blood flow to the realm, and reduce muscle spasms.
Aerobic exercise. Research has shown that engaging in any form of standard aerobic exercise may also help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
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