What is "Chronic Prostatitis"?
This is not a specific condition but is a symptom complex consisting of: pain in water pipe, testicles, groin, perineum (the area between scrotum and anus), lower part of back, pain in bladder area or during ejaculation. There may also be frequency of urination. Patients usually suffer from some but not all of the above symptoms which are chronic (may be present or run for many months or years).

What is the cause?
This is not understood. Some times (but not always) infection in the prostate may be the cause. If no infection is found in prostate, the term that is recommended for this condition is "chronic pelvic pain syndrome" as rare conditions such as "interstitial cystitis" or some unknown (but not serious) conditions in the pelvic cavity or even spasm of the bowel can produce similar symptoms.

What is the treatment?
Since the cause of the condition is not understood, the treatment is difficult. Because of this it is not unusual for patients to become anxious about the condition. Antibiotics are usually the first line of treatment but may not be effective. It may be necessary to give antibiotics for a long period (usually 6 weeks, some times longer). Anti-inflammatory tablets and other drugs (called alpha-blockers, which relax the muscles around the prostate) may help.

What if conventional treatments fail?
If conventional treatments fail, some patients use herbal preparations, which may help. If not, there is another treatment called "HYPERTHERMIA" of prostate.

What is HYPERTHERMIA of Prostate?
Hyperthermia means, heating of tissues to produce benefit. It is not understood how heating the prostate produces symptomatic benefit but improvement in symptoms occurs in a significant number of patients with out producing side effects or complications.

How is the treatment given?
A specially designed catheter is introduced into the bladder through the water pipe. This preliminary procedure is usually performed under a local anaesthesia but many prefer light sedation. A microwave probe is placed through the centre of the catheter. The tip of the probe lies close to the prostate which is then heated up to a temperature of between 40 to 43 degrees for 90 minutes. The treatment is given on a day care basis.

After Treatment and complications
You may experience some discomfort while passing urine for 24 hours or so. You may not notice the benefits for about 2 to 3 weeks. Complications are very rare. Urinary infection may occur despite the use of antibiotics given prior to treatment. Very rarely urinary retention may occur. This may require a short period of bladder catheterisation.