With prostate fibrosis, prostate tissue grows.
If chronic inflammation of the prostate is not treated in time, the disease can cause changes in the structure of the tissues of the organ.
Prostate fibrosis is a pathological condition that is characterized by the formation of connective tissue compactions, which leads to scarring of the soft tissues and organ. The disease affects only the male half of the population. Pathology can develop at different ages.
The proliferation and replacement of connective tissues leads to partial or complete function of the prostate. The secretion is not produced and does not enter the sperm, lymph and blood exchange is disrupted, which leads to other disorders of the genitourinary system.
Causes
Fibrosis can develop for many reasons. The main ones are: Atherosclerosis of blood vessels.
- A history of chronic prostatitis.
- Allergies.
- Promiscuous sex life. The disease develops quite often with irregular sexual intercourse.
- Weakening of the immune system.
- Hormonal imbalances.
The proliferation of connective tissue leads to a decrease in the organ, which is not able to secrete secretions, and therefore cannot function normally.
Classification
The classification is used to finalize the diagnosis.
Infiltrative-parenchymal - characterized by a change in the structural structure of the tissue.
Types of sclerotic changes in prostate tissue:
- Infiltrative-parenchymal - characterized by a change in the structural structure of the tissue.
- Focal sclerotic - connective tissue grows. An analogue is changes in the liver of the cirrhotic type.
- Interstitial-alternative fibrosis is accompanied by the presence of an inflammatory process that covers the septum of the prostate lobes.
- Total sclerotic - scarring is observed throughout the prostate gland. The organ is unable to function normally.
Stages
At advanced stages of prostate fibrosis, structural changes appear in the kidneys.
Pathology has the following stages of development:
- Stage 1 - characterized by the first signs of urination problems. If at this stage you consult a specialist and begin proper treatment, the prognosis is positive. After the therapy, the man will be able to lead an active sex life.
- Stage 2 - functional disruptions in the movement of urine appear.
- Stage 3 - characterized by the first morphological changes occurring in the organs of the genitourinary system.
- Stage 4 - changes extend to the seminiferous tubules, ureters, bladder and renal parenchyma. Symptoms of pathology are clearly expressed.
Surgery or shock wave therapy are the most effective treatment methods that will get rid of the pathology.
Symptoms
The development of prostate fibrosis is accompanied by an increase in blood pressure.
Main signs of the disease:
- A sharp cutting pain is felt in the lower abdomen and perineum.
- An admixture of blood appears in urine and semen.
- Painful and frequent urination, which is accompanied by a burning sensation.
- During sexual intercourse, a man experiences discomfort in the groin area.
- In the final stages, erectile dysfunction occurs.
- During exacerbation, libido decreases significantly.
Diagnostics
To correctly determine the type and stage of fibrosis, a whole range of diagnostic measures is carried out: urethroscopy.
- Rectal examination. This method will help the urologist detect or exclude the presence of inflammation and proliferation of connective tissue.
- Laboratory diagnostics. One of the important stages of diagnosis. Laboratory testing includes a general urine and blood test. An increased level of white blood cells and the presence of bacteria indicate the presence of inflammation.
- MRI and CT.
- Cytology.
- Transrectal ultrasound. An informative unique technique that helps to accurately determine the size of the prostate, its location in the pelvis, and how close it is to other organs.
- Vasovesiculography. The examination is prescribed for disorders of sexual activity, which manifest themselves in the form of erectile dysfunction, painful sensations during ejaculation, partial or complete decrease in libido. The method allows you to determine the condition of the seminal vesicles. As a rule, the study is carried out before surgery.
- Prostatography. The method allows you to confirm or refute the presence of prostate adenoma, fibrosis or tumors.
- Urethroscopy.
- Radioisotope research.
Complications
- Urine retention.
- Hydronephrosis.
- Cystitis and pyelonephritis.
- Impotence.
Treatment of prostate fibrosis
Conservative drug treatment
Conservative therapy is used in the treatment of fibrosis of the first and second stages. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the cause of the disease: chronic or congestive infectious prostatitis.
Conservative medical treatment includes the following treatment methods:
- Drug therapy - the patient is prescribed a course of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs, vitamin complexes, alpha-blockers, herbal remedies and restoratives.
- Physiotherapy - electromagnetic stimulation of the muscle tissue of the gland is used. The use of shock wave therapy (SWT) is justified. After just two procedures, the patient feels the first results - pain in the groin area is significantly reduced.
- Prostate massage is an effective procedure for fibrosis. You can do it with the help of stimulants at home. As a rule, stimulators with a built-in curved vibrator are used.
- Therapeutic exercise - use a set of Kegel exercises.
Shock wave therapy device.
Surgical treatment
There are two most common methods of surgical treatment of prostate fibrosis:
- TUR (transrectal resection).
- TUIP (transrectal incision of the prostate).
Fibrosis is characterized by enlargement of prostate tissue, which compresses the urinary organs. As a result, the outflow of urine becomes difficult and painful sensations appear.
The problem can only be eliminated by cutting the compressing tissue. During incision, only two incisions are made. The operation is performed when the gland is small.
TUIP has a lower risk of complications than TURBT.
Resection is performed through the rectal opening using an endoscope.
Transrectal resection.
TUR is performed on young patients, those who are overweight, suspected of having cancer, or in the presence of concomitant pathologies of the prostate. The operation is performed under general anesthesia and lasts from 1 to 2 hours, during which part of the prostate or the entire organ is removed. Already in the first days after surgery, there is a significant improvement in the urination process.
Other types of surgery:
- Prostatectomy - used for diffuse damage to prostate tissue and severe complications. The organ is removed using a laparoscope, which is less traumatic than the open method.
- Prostatovesiculectomy - the prostate is removed along with the seminal vesicles. The operation is prescribed at the third and fourth stages of the pathology.
- Adenomoprostatectomy - the affected area is removed in the presence of adenomatous scars.
Clinical indications for surgical treatment:
- Ureterohydronephrosis. It is characterized by dilation of the urinary tract due to the accumulation of large amounts of urine in them.
- Vesicoureteral reflux. A pathology in which urine from the bladder flows back into the ureters.
- Chronic urinary retention. It may occur due to blockage by a stone or diverticulum of the bladder. After urination, more and more urine remains in the bladder each time.
- Urethra-vesicular reflux. The pathology is characterized by the reflux of urine into the seminal vesicles from the urethra, which over time leads to the development of inflammation in them.
- Acute or chronic form. The renal collecting system is affected by inflammation.
- Acute urinary retention. The patient cannot urinate at all. A sharp pain appears in the lower abdomen. A feeling of fullness appears in the bladder area.
- Chronic renal failure. A serious problem with the functioning of the kidneys, in which they no longer cleanse the blood and remove toxins.
Vesicoureteral reflux.
Pyelonephritis of acute or chronic form.
Traditional methods of treatment
Treatment of pathology can be carried out using antibacterial drugs, in combination with folk remedies. The course of treatment can last for several months and have a break of up to two weeks.
Treatment with traditional methods is possible only after consulting a urologist and strictly following the recipe and dosage.
Pumpkin seeds.
Pumpkin has long been used to treat diseases such as prostate inflammation. The seeds of the vegetable are rich in zinc, which copes well with this pathology. After a short time, the condition can return to normal. It is recommended to eat at least 30 seeds daily before meals. This amount of seeds contains the daily dose of zinc needed by the male body.
Treatment with propolis.
Propolis has a tremendous anti-inflammatory effect. It is used in broad therapy. 40 gr. propolis is added to a glass of medical alcohol and steamed.
Then measure out 0.1 g of the medicine and combine it with a small amount of cocoa. A suppository is made from the resulting mass and inserted into the rectum overnight. The procedure is carried out over a month.
Then they take a break of a month or six months.
Parsley.
The plant helps relieve inflammation. Parsley contains vitamins that are necessary for the male body. One hundred grams of spicy herb contains double the daily requirement of vitamin A. It contains four times more vitamin C than citrus fruits.
This plant contains inulin, which normalizes glucose levels. Parsley juice should be drunk one tbsp. l. half an hour before lunch three times a day.
The seeds of the plant are also useful. A handful of seeds are ground into powder, added to boiling water, placed on the stove and boiled for a quarter of an hour. The strained broth is taken one tbsp. spoon five times a day.
Chestnut.
Chestnut shells will help cope with fibrosis. They take it with spikes. Brew and drink like tea. This remedy may increase appetite. Overweight people can use the decoction as an enema twice a week, 250 ml. The result is the same, but the appetite remains normal.
Source: https://oprostatite.guru/prostatit/fibroz-prostaty/
What is prostate fibrosis in men and why is it dangerous?
With chronic prostatitis, the development of a pathology such as prostate fibrosis is common. In this case, the organ is affected and loses function, which affects various aspects of a man’s life. Let's look at why prostate fibrosis occurs, what symptoms it is accompanied by, and what methods help cure it.
Main causes of prostate fibrosis
Fibrosis in the prostate gland is understood as a pathological condition in which healthy, glandular tissue of the organ is replaced by connective tissue (scars). In this way, the body tries to stop the inflammatory process and stop further damage to healthy tissue. However, scarring of the prostate inevitably leads to deterioration or loss of its functions.
There are many causes of prostate fibrosis, the most common are:
- chronic bacterial prostatitis;
- trauma or surgery on the gland;
- allergic reactions, including to medications;
- sexually transmitted infections;
- some hormonal disorders.
In addition to the immediate causes of pathology, there are also predisposing factors. It is believed that the risk of encountering prostate fibrosis is higher in men who lead a chaotic intimate life, have a history of atherosclerosis or disorders of the immune system.
Prolonged abstinence from intimacy can also be harmful and lead to fibrosis. In this case, it is all due to congestive processes in the prostate, causing congestive prostatitis, as well as hormonal disorders. Masturbation, as a replacement for full sexual intercourse, will not bring any benefit.
Classification of prostate fibrosis
Fibrosis in the prostate gland is more often detected in males over the age of 45 years. During this period of life, the number of sexual acts is reduced, and male menopause begins, leading to hormonal disruptions. The situation is complicated by previously untreated prostatitis and chronic processes in the gland.
In this case, pathology can have many types. Thus, the classification according to histological changes distinguishes the following types of prostate fibrosis:
- Periurethral. The most painful, appears when connective tissue grows in the periurethral area.
- Cystic. Characterized by the formation of single or multiple cysts in the prostate.
- Focal. Almost always combined with benign hyperplasia. The prostate gland has local damage and increases in size.
- Atrophic. Leads to prostate dysfunction and thickening of its membrane.
- Cirrhotic. Characterized by areas of dying cells, it can exist without inflammation of the prostate gland.
In addition to the histological classification, the final diagnosis may also include an indication of the stage of fibrosis. In this case, the patient may have no characteristic complaints.
In total, it is customary to distinguish four stages of disease development, each of which, as a rule, is characterized by corresponding symptoms (see table).
Stage of prostate fibrosis | Existing complaints and signs |
I | Difficulty urinating, urine is released in drops, there may be an increased urge. |
II | The urethra narrows and the flow of urine slows down. A man consults a doctor complaining of acute pain. |
III | Neighboring organs are involved in the pathological process, and the urge to urinate at night begins. The pain is severe and unbearable. |
IV | Dysfunction of the kidneys, testicles, proliferation of connective tissue in the vas deferens. |
The most favorable prognosis is in the first stage of fibrosis. Therefore, there is a recommendation that men over 40 years of age need a systematic examination by a urologist. The sooner treatment is started, the greater the chance of recovery.
Main symptoms of fibrosis
Prostate fibrosis has a long asymptomatic period, so identifying it in the early stages is quite difficult. A man consults a doctor only when the symptoms listed below become pronounced and significantly worsen the quality of life.
Fibrosis manifests itself:
- pain in the perineum, lower back or pubis;
- burning or pain when urinating;
- disturbances in the outflow of urine, including enuresis or retention;
- early ejaculation;
- erectile dysfunction.
Similar symptoms may indicate other diseases, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia. Some problems are inherent to prostate cancer, such as blood in the urine or semen. Therefore, it will not be possible to do without instrumental diagnostics.
Diagnostics
An experienced urologist may suspect pathology in the prostate gland even at the stage of collecting anamnesis. To do this, it is enough to compare the patient’s complaints with his lifestyle, age and other indicators. However, it is possible to understand what exactly the patient came with - prostatitis, adenoma or fibrosis - only after an instrumental examination.
For these purposes, the patient is referred for diagnostics:
- rectal palpation of the prostate - it will be noticeably enlarged and painful when pressed;
- TRUS – it will be possible to assess the volume of the organ, the nature of changes in tissues, foci of the inflammatory process;
- CT or MRI - to obtain three-dimensional images of the organ. Typically referred when prostate cancer is suspected or when TRUS is inconclusive;
- urethroscopy – for visual assessment of the condition of the urethra;
- cytology.
You can’t do without donating blood and urine for subsequent tests. It is possible that the man will be referred for the collection of prostate secretions for bacteriological culture, and if an STI is suspected, for PCR diagnostics.
It is important to differentiate prostate fibrosis from adenoma - they often have similar symptoms.
However, adenoma (BPH) is an independent pathology, while fibrosis is a complication of prostate inflammation and other diseases. There is also a difference in the development mechanism.
Hyperplasia is the growth of the prostate itself due to changes in epithelial cells, while fibrosis is the growth of connective tissue.
You won’t be able to make a diagnosis on your own; you need to contact a urologist and undergo an examination.
How to treat prostate fibrosis
Traditionally, fibrosis therapy is tailored to each man; there are no general treatment regimens for this disease. It all depends on how severe the symptoms are, the stage of the pathology, the provoking factor and a number of other points.
Drug therapy, physical therapy, and surgery may be used. As for folk remedies, some of them are acceptable for strengthening the main method of treatment or strengthening a weak immune system. Let's look at each approach in more detail.
Drug therapy
The use of drugs for fibrosis has two goals: combating the root cause of the pathology (if it can be influenced in this way) and eliminating unpleasant symptoms. In this case, the choice of drug largely depends on the results of laboratory tests.
To treat the disease, the following may be prescribed:
- Antibiotics – if bacteria are found based on the results of a study of prostate secretions or urine.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - help stop the pathological process and reduce the severity of symptoms.
- Preparations for relieving spasms - No-shpa, Papaverine in suppositories.
For urinary problems, alpha-blockers can be prescribed, which act on certain receptors in the genitourinary system. However, these drugs should be used with caution, keeping in mind their ability to sharply reduce blood pressure.
If hormonal imbalances are detected in the body, the doctor may prescribe hormone therapy. This is usually necessary when testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels change.
Application of physiotherapy
After relief of pain symptoms, the patient may be recommended a course of physical therapy. It will help curb the inflammatory process and also promote faster regeneration of damaged tissue. This method is more effective in the first stages, but in advanced cases it is not able to give a significant positive result.
Depending on the symptoms and type of fibrosis, the doctor may refer the patient to the following procedures:
- electrophoresis – stimulation of prostate tissue with a current of a certain frequency with simultaneous administration of a drug through the skin;
- magnetotherapy - an innovative method based on the capabilities of a magnetic field;
- Ultrasound therapy – exposure of the prostate to ultrasonic waves;
- galvanization - a method similar to electrophoresis;
- phototherapy.
As for rectal massage of the prostate using a device, it is not done in the case of fibrosis. An exception may be cases of stagnation of prostate secretion in the organ, however, even here the doctor will use such a method only as a last resort. The effectiveness of rectal massage has not been proven, which is why it is rarely used.
Some methods of physiotherapy are not prohibited, but are not sufficiently effective. For example, heating with UHF or warm microenemas will only help with the inflammatory process, but will not stop the proliferation of connective tissue.
The same applies to physical therapy. With its help, you can speed up recovery and reduce the risk of relapses of inflammation, but it will not be possible to influence the root cause of fibrosis. The exercises used for prostatitis will help here too, but only as a preventive measure. The benefits of Kegel exercises in the case of fibrosis are questionable.
Surgery
Surgery for fibrosis is a last resort. It is carried out only when medications do not help and the man becomes worse. It is also indispensable in the case of the third and, especially, fourth stages.
In modern surgery, various techniques are used, including minimally invasive ones:
- TURP of the prostate - the organ is excised completely or partially using special equipment inserted through the urethra.
- Prostatectomy, radical or partial. Can be performed through open access or endoscopic method.
- Laser exposure is the evaporation of prostate tissue with a beam of certain parameters.
Laparoscopic methods are often used. In this case, a special device, an endoscope, is inserted into a small puncture in the perineal area. It is equipped with a miniature video camera, the image from which is displayed on the monitor.
Under the control of an endoscope, using special instruments, areas of connective tissue are removed with high precision, while healthy areas of the prostate are practically not damaged.
Treatment with folk remedies
Prostate fibrosis is a complex pathology that cannot be cured with herbs alone. But they will help strengthen the immune system, the main thing is to know how to prepare the medicine. To do this, you need to follow the recipe and treatment regimen.
- Mix pumpkin juice and buckwheat honey in equal parts. Drink a tablespoon 3 times a day for 20 days in a row. Then take a break for a week and repeat the course.
- Collect pumpkin seeds, dry in the oven, grind in a coffee grinder. Add a teaspoon to salads or eat with honey. The norm is no less than a tablespoon per day. The course is unlimited.
- Pour 40 g of parsley seeds into 200 ml of hot water, leave for an hour, then strain and bring to the initial volume with water. Drink a quarter glass in the morning and evening for a month, then take a break.
Bee products can cause a severe allergic reaction and be fatal. Therefore, before treatment, you need to obtain the approval of the attending physician and undergo examination by an allergist. As for parsley seeds, they are contraindicated for kidney and bladder diseases, low blood pressure, epilepsy and gout.
Traditional methods of treatment have been poorly studied, so their effect is unpredictable. It is better not to take risks and stick to traditional methods of combating prostate fibrosis.
Principles of nutrition
There is no special diet for this disease, and the recommendations are similar to any form of prostatitis or prostate adenoma. A man needs to exclude fried foods from his diet, give up alcohol, processed foods, and spices.
It is important to adhere to the following principles:
- Drink at least 2.5 liters of water per day.
- Steam, bake in the oven or boil.
- Eat small meals, 5-6 times a day.
- Do not eat foods with preservatives, dyes or flavors.
- Don't overeat.
Fatty meats are replaced with chicken, rabbit or veal. Porridge, nuts, and honey are included in the diet.
Consequences of fibrosis for men and prevention
Prostate fibrosis does not directly threaten a man’s life, but can cause serious complications. First of all, this concerns the formation of stones due to impaired outflow of fluids and the development of calculous prostatitis, but other problems may also appear:
- erectile dysfunction up to complete absence of erection;
- pyelonephritis and cystitis;
- infertility;
- vesiculitis or orchitis;
- acute urinary retention and resulting renal failure.
Therefore, special attention should be paid to the prevention of prostate fibrosis. It is necessary to avoid indiscriminate intimate contacts and prolonged abstinence, not to take antibiotics without prescription and not to self-medicate. Timely preventive examination allows you to identify pathology at an early stage and get rid of it.
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Source: https://prostatits.ru/oslozhneniya/fibroz-prostaty.html
Methods for treating prostate fibrosis
The prostate performs a secretory function and is the most important part of the male reproductive system. Prostate fibrosis is usually called a disease characterized by the proliferation of connective tissue of the gland and a violation of its functionality. Below we will talk about methods of treating prostate fibrosis , which is essentially the final stage of chronic prostatitis.
Causes of fibrosis
The pathology most often occurs due to an infectious lesion of the prostate. The presence of foci of connective tissue degeneration leads to further development of inflammation, thus creating a vicious circle.
Experts identify the following factors that contribute to the appearance of foci of fibrosis in the prostate gland:
- chronic inflammation of the prostate;
- atherosclerosis;
- excess or lack of sexual relations;
- allergic reactions;
- autoimmune pathologies;
- hormonal disorders.
The most common cause of fibrosis is chronic prostatitis.
Symptoms of prostate sclerosis
The symptoms of incipient prostate fibrosis are almost the same as in the case of prostatitis, so the disease is difficult to diagnose. Signs of prostate fibrosis:
- difficult, often painful urination;
- pain in the groin area, which radiates to the perineum, anus and lower back;
- erectile dysfunction;
- painful ejaculation;
- blood in the ejaculate.
At an early stage, the disease may be asymptomatic. This greatly complicates the timely diagnosis of pathology. Often it is not prostate fibrosis itself that is diagnosed, but its various complications:
- chronic renal failure;
- pyelonephritis;
- hydronephrosis;
- urinary retention;
- cystitis;
- loss of sexual function.
The most dangerous complication of prostate fibrosis is chronic renal failure, which occurs in case of kidney dysfunction.
The following classification of prostate fibrosis according to clinical signs is used:
- at stage I, minor urination disorders are noted;
- Stage II is characterized by pathologies of urine discharge from the bladder and ureters;
- stage III is characterized by involvement of the seminal vesicles in the pathological process, as well as damage to the bladder and ureter;
- Stage IV is characterized by an increase in symptoms of chronic renal failure, hydronephrosis and purulent lesions of the seminal vesicles.
Diagnosis of prostate fibrosis
When examining for prostate fibrosis, the following methods are used:
- digital rectal examination;
- transrectal ultrasound;
- Vasovesiculography.
The method of rectal examination of the prostate remains the main method for diagnosing prostate pathologies. In the case of connective tissue degeneration of the organ, the doctor notes the presence of compactions and a decrease in the gland in volume. When palpating the affected gland, no secretion is released from it.
Based on the results of a digital examination of the prostate and other studies, the doctor chooses treatment options.
Treatment of prostate fibrosis in Israel
As many years of practice have shown, conservative treatment of the disease does not provide a significant effect. However, in preparation for surgical treatment, therapy is carried out with drugs such as:
- antibiotics;
- anti-inflammatory drugs;
- drugs to combat congestion;
- vitamins.
We especially note that traditional methods of treating prostate pathologies, including fibrosis, often not only do not produce an effect, but also lead to a deterioration in the patient’s condition. You can only entrust the treatment of a disease to a real specialist. In addition, the effectiveness of treatment depends on how timely measures are taken.
The main methods are surgical care. Indications for surgical treatment are:
- urinary retention with complications;
- infections of the genitourinary system that are caused by sclerosis processes;
- hydronephrosis;
- symptoms of chronic renal failure;
- purulent pathology of the seminal vesicles caused by reflux.
Today, the following types of operations for prostate fibrosis are used:
- removal of connective tissue foci;
- total removal of the prostate;
- removal of the affected seminal vesicles along with the gland;
- isolated removal of only seminal vesicles affected by purulent pathology;
- correction of a narrowed ureter.
It must be remembered that the degeneration of prostate tissue during fibrosis is irreversible, so it is not possible to permanently cure fibrosis. But timely measures will prevent the progression of the pathology and prolong the patient’s full life.
Source: https://rus.mcra.co.il/lechenie-fibroza-predstatelnoj-zhelezi
Prostate fibrosis in men, symptoms, treatment, prevention
- Prostate fibrosis is a disease in which the normal glandular tissue of the prostate gland is replaced by connective tissue, that is, scar tissue.
- Scarring of the prostate leads to the organ partially or completely losing its functions.
- In advanced cases, fibrosis leads to quite serious complications, so men need to start treating the pathology as early as possible.
Causes of fibrosis
In most cases, the main cause of fibrosis is inflammatory processes affecting glandular tissue. That is why pathology is often diagnosed after prostatitis or during its chronic course.
In older men, the disease may be caused by a decrease in the production of sex hormones, in particular testosterone.
More rare reasons for replacing healthy tissue with connective tissue include:
- Prostate injuries;
- Surgical interventions on the prostate gland;
- Allergic reactions;
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (adenoma);
- Infections that a man suffers due to infection during sexual intercourse;
- Autoimmune processes in the body.
There are also a number of factors predisposing to prostate fibrosis. These are atherosclerosis, a sedentary lifestyle, promiscuous sex life, and decreased functioning of the immune system.
The development of fibrosis is often observed in men who abstain from intimate contacts. In this case, secretions accumulate in the prostate, which leads to stagnation, in which the risk of proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms is high.
Classification of fibrosis and stages of the disease
In urology, several classifications of prostate fibrosis are used. In practice, the division of the disease according to histological characteristics is of greatest importance:
- Periurethral. It is characterized by the growth of scars in the periurethral area. It is located in the proximal urethra near the lumen of the canal. Periurethral fibrosis most often manifests itself as pain and difficulty urinating at an early stage of development;
- Cystic. Histological analysis shows the presence of cysts. They can be either single or located over most of the prostate;
- Focal. There is an increase in the number of connective tissue cells, which ultimately leads to the prostate significantly increasing in size. Sometimes focal fibrosis is confused with chronic prostatitis;
- Atrophic. Characterized by a significant decrease in the volume of glandular tissue. Accompanied by dysfunction of the prostate gland and thickening of its capsule;
- Cirrhotic. The main sign of fibrosis of this form is individual areas of dying cells. May not be accompanied by an inflammatory process.
Based on morphological changes and clinical manifestations, prostate fibrosis is divided into 4 stages:
- At the first stage, primary changes occur, which generally do not cause changes in the man’s well-being. But it is during this period that treatment of pathology is most effective;
- The second stage of fibrosis is the initial manifestations of functional disruptions in the outflow of urine;
- At the third stage, morphological and structural changes occur in the prostate;
- The fourth stage is set if fibrosis also affects neighboring organs - the bladder, spermatic cords, ureter, and renal parenchyma. The symptoms at this stage of the disease are pronounced, and if left untreated, the man may experience severe complications. The patient is usually offered surgical intervention.
Signs of fibrosis
The prostate gland is located in the pelvic area under the bladder.
The prostate passes through the urethra, the vas deferens, and the neck of the bladder. Accordingly, fibrosis also affects the functioning of these organs.
However, in most cases, in the initial stages, the pathology does not lead to severe pain. This is due to the fact that there are no nerve endings in the prostate itself. Pain appears only when the connective tissue extends into the prostate capsule or beyond.
The occurrence of fibrosis can be suspected based on urodynamic disturbances.
A man may notice:
- The appearance of periodic or constant pain during urination;
- Burning in the urethra;
- Urinary retention or, conversely, incontinence.
Gradually other symptoms appear. This may be pain during ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation.
There is heaviness in the perineum, constant aching pain in the pelvic area. Sometimes blood is visible in the semen.
All of the above signs are not specific, characteristic specifically for fibrosis. That is, they can also be observed in other diseases of the prostate or urinary organs. A correct diagnosis can only be made after a thorough diagnosis.
Methods for diagnosing prostate fibrosis
If prostate fibrosis is suspected, the urologist should send the man for examination. Diagnostics is necessary in order to make a correct diagnosis, since sclerosis is similar in its symptoms to adenoma and prostatitis.
Standard diagnostics include:
- Digital examination of the prostate through the rectum. On palpation, an enlargement of the gland and its soreness are noted;
- TRUSY. A type of ultrasound that is performed using a special sensor rectally. Sonography shows the volume of the prostate, pathological areas, inflammatory foci, cysts. Read how TRUS is performed here https://prostatitmedic.ru/truzi.html;
- MRI or CT. Computer examinations with obtaining images in three projections are necessary if doubts remain after the ultrasound. MRI allows us to exclude malignant processes;
- Urethroscopy. Internal examination of the urethra. Necessary to determine places of narrowing of the urethra;
- Blood tests and urine to detect inflammation.
In most cases, a man is also prescribed PCR diagnostics to determine the presence of sexually transmitted infections.
Prostate fibrosis on ultrasound
Fibrosis Treatment Methods
There is no single standard treatment regimen for prostate fibrosis. Therapy for each patient is selected individually, taking into account the identified changes, age, and concomitant diseases.
- At an early stage of pathology, treatment begins with taking medications; the doctor may prescribe physiotherapy and massage.
- In advanced cases or if there is no effect from taking medications, surgery is performed.
- Traditional methods of therapy are used only in conjunction with others.
- The purpose of their use for prostate fibrosis is to reduce the inflammatory process, improve urination, and increase immune function.
Drug therapy
The main goal of taking medications is to prevent further progression of the formation of areas of fibrosis and reduce inflammation. Unfortunately, fibrosis cannot be completely reversed, but the formation of new scars can be stopped.
It is also necessary to normalize the flow of urine, since urodynamic disorders can cause kidney problems and lead to the formation of stones in the urinary system.
The patient may be prescribed:
- Antibiotics. Indications for their use are fibrosis combined with bacterial prostatitis;
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Reduce swelling and inflammation, resulting in reduced pain;
- Painkillers are prescribed for severe pain. Not only tablets, but also rectal suppositories with analgesic components help well in such situations;
- Vitamin complexes. The purpose of their purpose is to increase the body’s defenses and normalize metabolic processes.
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Many urologists successfully use enzyme preparations in their practice for fibrosis, for example Longidase. The main component of the drug is hyaluronidase.
- This is an enzyme with an antifibrotic effect; under its influence, microcirculation in the prostate improves and the risk of new scars is reduced.
- At the same time, tissue swelling is reduced and the penetration of antibacterial agents into the inflammation site is improved.
- Therefore, it is advisable to use the drug Longidaza against the background of complex therapy.
In addition to the main antifibrotic effect, Longidase is also endowed with antioxidant and immunostimulating activity. The medicine is able to neutralize toxins and heavy metal salts.
Available in the form of rectal suppositories and in powder, which is used to prepare a solution for intramuscular administration.
Suppositories for fibrosis are prescribed to men: 1 per day for 10-20 days. Longidase is administered intramuscularly at a dose of 3000 IU once every three days. 10-15 injections are enough for a course of treatment.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapeutic procedures for prostate fibrosis are used to reduce inflammation and pain, improve blood circulation and normalize metabolic processes in the prostate gland.
A man’s doctor may prescribe:
- Electrophoresis. The prostate tissue is stimulated with current at a certain frequency, and a drug is injected at the same time;
- Ultrasound therapy. The prostate gland is exposed to ultrasonic waves;
- Laser treatment. Light therapy reduces pain and inflammation.
According to indications, a man may also be prescribed a prostate massage. During the massage, stagnation is eliminated and the outflow of secretions is improved, which accordingly normalizes the functioning of the organ. Prostate massage can be performed in a medical facility or at home.
Surgical intervention
Surgery is almost always necessary at the last stage of fibrosis. Also, indications for surgical intervention are:
- Acute urinary retention, manifested by intense pain, a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen, symptoms of intoxication, and a general feeling of poor health;
- Stone formation;
- Protrusion of the bladder wall or a significant increase in the size of the organ;
- Ureteral reflux, in which urine refluxes into the seminal vesicles;
- Congenital abnormalities of the ureter, such as its dilation or narrowing.
The patient may be prescribed:
- Transurethral resection of prostate tissue. It is considered a minimally invasive intervention, since the operation is performed through the urethra. During its implementation, pathologically altered tissues are removed;
- Resection of the prostate through direct access. During the operation, an incision is made in the abdominal cavity. The intervention is traumatic, so it is used only if other surgical techniques are unavailable or contraindicated;
- Laser therapy. The altered tissues are evaporated using light rays.
Carrying out partial resection of the gland does not guarantee that scars will not begin to form again in normal tissues.
To reduce the likelihood of recurrent prostate fibrosis, the patient should periodically undergo follow-up examinations and adhere to those preventive measures that help reduce the risk of connective tissue proliferation.
Traditional therapy
As already mentioned, traditional therapy alone for sclerotic changes in the prostate is ineffective. Therefore, it can only be used against the background of the main treatment.
- A mixture of pumpkin and honey. Buckwheat honey and juice squeezed from pumpkin must be combined in equal proportions. The prepared drink is drunk three times a day, one tablespoon at a time. The course of treatment is 3 weeks, then you need to take a break for 10 days and continue taking the drink;
- Pumpkin seeds. Beneficial for men's health due to its high zinc content. The microelement has a positive effect on the prostate and improves its functions. Dried seeds need to be ground into powder in a coffee grinder. The resulting mass can be added in small quantities to salads, cereals, yogurt, or eaten with honey. One tablespoon of powder per day is enough, and the course of such treatment is not limited. More about pumpkin seeds https://prostatitmedic.ru/tykvennye-semechki.html;
- Parsley infusion. 40 grams of plant seeds must be brewed with a glass of boiling water, left to brew and strain after an hour. Drink a quarter glass of the drink twice a day for a month.
- Propolis candles. 40 grams of crushed propolis should be dissolved in a steam bath, pour 200 ml of medical alcohol and steam. Then a small amount of cocoa powder is added to the resulting mixture and small candles are formed from this mass after cooling. They need to be kept in the refrigerator and used after hardening. Insert suppositories with propolis into the rectum in the evening after bowel movements.
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When choosing folk remedies, it is necessary to take into account the risk of allergic reactions. If you have previously been allergic to honey, then it is better not to prepare herbal remedies with it. When using parsley, you need to know that this plant is prohibited for use in cases of kidney disease, gout, and epilepsy.
Diet therapy for fibrosis
There is no special therapeutic nutrition for prostate fibrosis. But men should eat in such a way that the load on the organ is minimal and at the same time metabolic processes and blood circulation in the prostate are not disturbed.
To achieve this you need:
- Drink clean water at least 2.5 liters per day;
- Avoid fried foods. It is better to boil, bake, stew, steam food;
- Minimize the consumption of preserved foods, too salty foods, flavorings;
- Don't overeat. It is better to eat small portions 5-6 times a day.
The diet should include nuts, herbs, fresh vegetables and fruits, lactic acid products, and cereals. Fatty meat should be replaced with rabbit and chicken.
Consequences of fibrosis
Fibrosis cannot be completely defeated. But this does not mean that the disease does not need to be treated. If you do not take any action, the disease can cause:
- Infertility. Impaired secretion of prostate juice leads to asthenozoospermia and teratozoospermia, which can be detected by performing a spermogram;
- Sexual dysfunction, including impotence;
- Urolithiasis;
- Urethrohydronephrosis – dilation of the renal pelvis. Occurs as a result of backflow of urine, which occurs when urine excretion is impaired due to narrowing of the ureter;
- Pyelonephritis;
- Kidney failure.
It is also necessary to remember that prostate fibrosis negatively affects the functioning of the entire body, predisposing to changes in the functioning of most internal organs.
With timely treatment of fibrosis, further formation of connective tissue can be prevented. And the use of anti-inflammatory, enzyme and blood circulation-improving drugs allows you to lead a normal life and not experience discomfort.
Prevention measures
Men who are less likely to develop fibrosis are those who:
- They lead an active sex life, but at the same time avoid promiscuous sexual contacts. Fibrosis can be a consequence of bacterial prostatitis, which in turn often occurs against the background of sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, in case of casual relationships, it is imperative to use barrier contraception;
- Avoid hypothermia of the pelvic organs;
- Lead an active lifestyle;
- Do not smoke, rarely drink alcohol;
- Acute and chronic prostatitis is treated in a timely manner.
A strong immune system and proper healthy nutrition also help prevent the disease.
Source: https://ProstatitMedic.ru/fibroz.html