Author
Home > Health > What is the Difference Between BPH and Prostatitis?

Guilherme Mazui

•4 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between BPH and Prostatitis?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis are two distinct conditions that affect the prostate gland. They have different causes, symptoms, treatments, and outlooks. Here are the main differences between the two:

Causes:

  • BPH is characterized by the noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, and its cause is not entirely understood. It is believed to be related to hormones.
  • Prostatitis involves inflammation of the prostate gland, usually caused by bacterial infections or other factors.

Symptoms:

  • Prostatitis often has a sudden onset, with symptoms appearing rapidly and intensely. Common symptoms include pain around the testicles, penis, anus, lower back, and lower abdomen; pain while urinating; frequent urination; difficulty passing urine; blood in urine; pain during ejaculation; fevers, chills, and joint pains.
  • BPH tends to develop gradually over time, with symptoms gradually worsening. Common symptoms include difficulty urinating, weak or interrupted urine flow, urinary frequency, and the sensation of not being able to empty the bladder completely.

Age of onset:

  • Prostatitis can affect men of all ages but is most common in men under the age of 50.
  • BPH tends to increase with age, typically affecting men over the age of 50.

Treatment:

  • BPH can be treated but not cured, with treatments including medication, heat therapy, or surgery to remove excess prostate tissue.
  • Prostatitis can be treated with antibiotics for acute bacterial prostatitis, while chronic prostatitis may require more long-term treatments.

If you experience any symptoms related to your prostate, it is essential to consult a doctor for a comprehensive medical evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between BPH and Prostatitis?
  • Comparative Table: BPH vs Prostatitis

    • Comparative Table: BPH vs Prostatitis

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis:

    Feature BPH Prostatitis
    Definition BPH is the noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Prostatitis is the inflammation or infection of the prostate gland.
    Onset BPH tends to develop gradually over time, with symptoms worsening slowly. Prostatitis often has a sudden onset, with symptoms appearing rapidly and intensely.
    Symptoms Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) causing bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). Pain and/or discomfort on ejaculation is one of the most common and bothersome symptoms, but also the most differentiating symptom experienced by men with chronic prostatitis.
    Causes The exact cause of BPH is not clear, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes and aging. Prostatitis can be caused by infection or other factors.
    Treatment Treatment for BPH may include alpha receptor blockers, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and anticholinergic agents. Some patients with more severe prostatic enlargement may need surgery, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Treatment for prostatitis depends on the type, such as antibiotics for bacterial prostatitis.
    Age Factor If you are over age 50, it is more likely BPH than prostatitis, and if you are under age 35, acute bacterial prostatitis is more likely than BPH. Prostatitis and BPH are distinct conditions affecting the prostate, and a comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

    Please note that some men may experience overlapping symptoms of both BPH and prostatitis, making it essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.