Itchy Prostate or Prostate Cancer? Know the Difference, Save Your Life

An itchy prostate is not a typical symptom of prostate cancer, but men experiencing any sort of prolonged discomfort in the area should see a doctor, because itching could be indicative of another problem.

While itching isn't commonly listed as a symptom of prostate cancer, it can't be ruled out.

Typically, symptoms of prostate cancer are changes in the flow and frequency of urination, bleeding, and pain in the back, hips, and pelvis.

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According to Right Diagnosis, an itchy prostate is generally the result of acute prostatitis, chronic prostatitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Acute prostatitis is a sudden onset of inflammation of the prostate. It is caused by bacteria and often occurs alongside urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia and gonorrhea, and biopsy surgeries, according to Healthline. Other symptoms include chills and fever, pain in the prostate region, and bleeding. Typically prostatitis is diagnosed with a digital rectal examination and can be treated with antibiotics for four to six weeks.

There are two types of chronic prostatitis: bacterial and chronic pelvic pain syndrome, or CPPS, according to Patient.

In order to be considered chronic, the symptoms must have occurred for three months.

Bacterial prostatitis is caused by persistent infection of the prostate gland. Typically a man with this disease will have recurring urine infections. Symptoms are similar to those found with acute prostatitis, but typically they are less severe. It can be treated with antibiotics, but unless the infection completely disappears, there is risk of it returning.

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As for CPPS, the cause is unknown. Men with CPPS typically experience pain, have changes in urinary flow and frequency, and have sexual problems, such as impotence.

For both forms of chronic prostatitis, several tests may be performed to diagnose, including urine samples and a digital rectal exam. Painkillers, laxatives, and antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the effects of the disease.

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