In contrast to BPH, prostatitis usually occurs in younger men between 20 and 50 and can be acute or chronic. Bacteria or chlamydia commonly cause the condition, although autoimmune disorders may also play a part. Excessive sexual activity may deplete glandular zinc, ascorbic acid and proteolytic enzymes which normally sterilize the urethra and protect the gland from infection. Symptoms include difficulty, frequency and urgency with a burning sensation or pain during uriniation, and a discharge from the penis after bowel movements. Untreated prostatitis may lead to bladder outlet obstruction and prostate stones.
Conventional treatment calls for antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
About 20 per cent of enlarged prostates develop cancer. At least 80 percent of those cases do not metastasize, or grow slowly such that they cause few problems. However, other forms may spread to the bones of the spine or the lymph nodes. Most physicians select surgery as the treatment of choice for prostate cancer, along with radiation and chemotherapy. Any condition of the prostate needs attention by a qualified health practitioner.