Prostatitis Health Dictionary

Prostatitis: From 4 Different Sources


Inflammation of the prostate gland, usually affecting men aged 30–50.

It is often caused by a bacterial infection that has spread from the urethra.

A urinary catheter increases the risk.

Prostatitis causes pain when passing urine and increased frequency of urination; it sometimes causes fever and a discharge from the penis.

There may be pain in the lower abdomen, around the rectum, and in the lower back, and blood in the urine.

Diagnosis is made by rectal examination and tests on urine samples and urethral secretions.

Treatment is with antibiotic drugs.

The condition may be slow to clear up and tends to recur.

Health Source: BMA Medical Dictionary
Author: The British Medical Association
Inflammation of the prostate. The causes may be varied, ranging from infection to portal congestion to cancer to increased adipose estradiol release in the middle-aged male...to over-use.
Health Source: Herbal Medical
Author: Health Dictionary
n. inflammation of the prostate gland. This may be due to bacterial infection and can be either acute or chronic. In acute prostatitis the patient has all the symptoms of a urinary infection, including pain in the perineal area, temperature, and shivering. Treatment is by antibiotic administration. In chronic prostatitis, patients commonly complain of pain in the area between the scrotum and the anus, accompanied by *lower urinary tract symptoms. Some of these cases are due to bacterial infection, in which case antibiotics are required. In others, no bacterial infection is demonstrated, although there may be evidence of inflammation. Treatment in these cases involves alpha blockers, anti-inflammatory agents, and occasionally antibiotics. In some men, vigorous prostate massage performed under a general anaesthetic can significantly alleviate symptoms.
Health Source: Oxford | Concise Colour Medical Dictionary
Author: Jonathan Law, Elizabeth Martin

Strangury

A symptom characterized by a painful and frequent desire to empty the bladder, although only a few drops of urine can be passed. Causes include prostatitis, cystitis, bladder cancer (see bladder tumours), and bladder stones (see calculus, urinary tract).... strangury

Buchu

Bucco. Barosma betulina. Agathosma betulina (Berg). French: Buchu. German: Bukkostrauch. Spanish: Buchu. Italian: Diosma. Dried leaves.

Action: promotes secretion of urine. Stimulant diuretic (cold). Safe and effective anti-bacterial for urinary tract infections and recurrent inflammation of the bladder.

Keynote: urinary antiseptic.

Constituents. Volatile oil, flavonoids, tannin, mucilage, B-complex vitamins.

Uses: Cystitis, especially when caused by organism E. Coli. Pyelitis, urethritis, prostatitis, pus in the urine. Catarrh of the bladder. Fluid retention. To aid flow of urine.

Popular kidney herbs. Tea. Couchgrass 25 per cent; Buchu 15 per cent; Bearberry 15 per cent; Alfalfa 45 per cent. 1-2 teaspoons to cup boiling water.

Combinations. Teas. (1) equal parts: Buchu, Uva Ursi, Broom and Clivers; for chronic dropsy. (2) equal parts: Buchu and Juniper berries, for acute dropsy. (3) equal parts: Buchu and Marshmallow for irritable bladder.

Side effects – none known.

Preparations: Minimum heat. Should not be boiled. Covered vessel (teapot) to prevent escape of volatile oil. Thrice daily.

Tea: One teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup.

Liquid extract, BHC Vol 1. 1:1 90 per cent ethanol. Dose: 0.5-1.5ml.

Tincture, BHC Vol 1. 1:5, 60 per cent ethanol. Dose: 2-4ml.

Infusion Buchu Cone BPC 1954. 1:2.5, 25 per cent ethanol. Dose: 4-8ml.

Kasbah Remedy (Potter’s). Buchu an important ingredient.

Gerard House. Formula. Pulverised Dandelion root 60mg; Pulverised Extract Buchu 3-1, 20mg; Pulverised Extract Uva Ursi 3-1, 20mg; Pulverised Extract Clivers 4-1, 4mg. Dose: 2 tablets thrice daily. ... buchu

Benefits Of Pygeum Bark Tea

Try an herbal tea from Africa - pygeum bark tea. Despite its bitter, slightly unpleasant taste, this tea is becoming quite popular. It has plenty of health benefits which will surely help you stay healthy. Find out more about pygeum bark tea and give it a try! About Pygeum Bark Tea Pygeum bark tea is made from the bark of the pygeum tree, an evergreen tree which belongs to the rose family. It grows in central and southern Africa, although it has become endangered due to the large demands for the tree’s bark. A mature tree can be as tall as 25m. The bark is black-brown and scaly, with alternate, simple and long dark green leaves. The flowers bloom from October to May; they are androgynous and greenish-white. The fruit is red-brown, rather wide but not big (about 1cm) and has two lobs, with a seed in each one. The fruit can be used as food both for humans and animals. The wood can be used to make tools, or build homes. How to prepare Pygeum Bark Tea There are two ways in which you can make pygeum bark tea. One involves chopped bark; add it to a cup of freshly-boiled water and let it steep for 10-15 minutes. For the other, you can use the powdered form of the pygeum; you add it to a cup of boiled water, letting it steep for 3-5 minutes. Pygeum bark tea is known to be pretty bitter. If the taste is too much for you, sweeten it with milk, honey or fruit juice. Pygeum Bark Tea Benefits A few important active constituents that are transferred from the pygeum bark to the tea are: beta-sitosterol, ursolic acid, oleanic acid and ferulic acid. Pygeum bark tea can be drunk by men, as it has important health benefits for them. It is often added in the treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is also recommended in the case of male infertility, as it increases the quantity and quality of the sperm. It can even be used as an aphrodisiac, as it enhances the sexual performance. Pygeum bark tea is used to treat urinary tract infections (cystitis, prostatitis); it also increases the urinary function. You can drink pygeum bark tea if you’ve got symptoms of bronchitis, influenza, or various other respiratory infections. This tea will also help you if you’ve got a fever. An interesting benefit is related to hair: drinking pygeum bark tea is quite useful in the treatment for hair loss. The infusion can be applied on wet hair, after it’s been washed with shampoo. Try it if you’ve got these problems. Pygeum Bark Tea Side Effects If you’re pregnant or breast feeding, it is best not to drink pygeum bark tea; it can affect the baby in both cases. Also, it’s safer not to give it to children, either. It might neutralize the effects of various types of medication. Make sure you talk to your doctor first if you’re taking any kind of medication; he will tell you if it’s safe or not to drink pygeum bark tea. Also, drinking too much pygeum bark tea might not be good for you. It might lead to stomach discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, dizziness, headaches, or visual disturbances. Don’t let its bitter taste scare you - pygeum bark tea is good for your health. It is especially recommended for men, but it can be useful for women, as well.... benefits of pygeum bark tea

Dyspareunia

Dyspareunia means painful or di?cult COITUS. In women the cause may be physical – for example, due to local in?ammation or infection in the vagina – or psychological; say, a fear of intercourse. In men the cause is usually physical, such as prostatitis (see PROSTATE, DISEASES OF) or a tight foreskin (see PREPUCE).... dyspareunia

Equisetum Arvense

Linn.

Family: Equisetaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas at high altitudes.

English: Field Horsetail.

Ayurvedic: Ashwa-puchha (non- classical).

Action: Haemostatic, haemopoietic, astringent, diuretic. Used for genitourinary affections (urethritis, enuresis, cystitis, prostatitis), internally as an antihaemorrhagic and externally as a styptic.

The ashes of the plant are beneficial in acidity of the stomach and dyspepsia.

Key application: Internally in irrigation therapy for post-traumatic and static inflammation, and for bacterial infections and inflammation of the lower urinary tract and renal gravel.

The British Herbal Compendium reported weak diuretic, haemostyptic, vulnerary and mild leukocytosis causing actions.

The haemostatic substance has been shown to act orally, it has no effect on blood pressure and is not a vasoconstrictor.

The herb contains 10-20% minerals, of which over 66% are silicic acids and silicates; alkaloids, including nicotine, palustrine and palustrinine; flavonoids, such as iso-quercitrin and equicertin; sterols, including cholesterol, isofucosterol, campesterol; a sa- ponin equisitonin, dimethyl-sulphone, thiaminase and aconitic acid. Diuretic action of the herb is attributed to its flavonoid and saponin constituents, Silicic acid strengthens connective tissue and helps in healing bones.... equisetum arvense

Prostate

This is a walnut-sized gland that surrounds the beginning of the urethra in men. It secretes the alkaline transport fluid that mixes with sperm from the testes to form semen. The prostate needs adequate anabolic steroid stimulation for its health and growth, especially testosterone. Because of diminished healthy hormone levels, pelvic congestion, and decreased blood (and hormone) circulation, or because of sexually transmitted or urinary tract infections, a male may get prostatitis. (See BPH.)... prostate

Trichomonas Vaginalis

A protozoon normally present in the VAGINA of about 30–40 per cent of women. It sometimes becomes pathogenic and causes in?ammation of the genital passages, with vaginal discharge. A man may become infected as a result of sexual intercourse with an infected woman and suffer from a urethral discharge; it may also cause prostatitis (see under PROSTATE GLAND, DISEASES OF). METRONIDAZOLE is usually an e?ective treatment, and to obtain a satisfactory result it may be necessary to treat both partners. Should metronidazole not work, then tinidazole may be tried.... trichomonas vaginalis

Ureaplasma

A group of micro-organisms which plays a larger part in the causation of disease than was at one time suspected. One of them, Urea-plasma urealyticum, is now recognised as a cause of chronic prostatitis (see under PROSTATE GLAND, DISEASES OF), NON-SPECIFIC URETHRITIS (NSU) – see also URETHRA, DISEASES OF AND INJURY TO – and INFERTILITY.... ureaplasma

Discover Saw Palmetto Tea!

If you’re a fan of herbal teas, you have to try saw palmetto tea! It’s special, as it is made from the berries of a small palm. Read more about its health benefits and side effects! About Saw Palmetto Tea Saw palmetto tea is made from the fruit saw palmetto, also known by its scientific name, Serenoa repens. It is the sole species which remains classified in the genus Serenoa. It is a small palm, native to the southeastern part of the United States. Its height varies between 2 and 4m. Its leaves are 1-2m long and have a bare petiole, with a rounded fan of about 20 leaflets at the end; the petiole has fine, sharp teeth or spines. The flowers are small, yellowish-white and produced in dense panicles, and the fruit is a large, reddish-black berry. How to prepare Saw Palmetto Tea A cup of saw palmetto tea can be prepared with either the plant’s berries, or normal teabags. In case you’re using saw palmetto berries, add a teaspoon of the fruits to a cup of freshly boiled water. Let it steep for about 5 minutes, before you strain to remove the berries. Sweeten it, if necessary, with honey or fruit juice. If you’ve got saw palmetto tea bags, follow the instructions on the tea box. Saw Palmetto Tea Constituents Saw palmetto tea gets many active constituents from its main ingredient: saw palmetto berries. The constituents of the berries include a high concentration of fatty acids and phytosterols, as well as beta-sitosterol, capric acid, ferulic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. Saw Palmetto Tea Benefits Saw palmetto tea is known for its important role in treating urinary tract infections. Drinking this tea helps to gently stimulate urination; thanks to this, the infectious microorganisms are “flushed out” along with the urine. Drinking saw palmetto tea helps remove toxins and waste products which can affect and reduce the functions of the kidneys, liver, and bladder. It also helps with the digestive system; it is drunk to treat diarrhea, acid reflux, gas, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome. Saw palmetto tea also helps calm coughs and treats various forms of chest congestion. It is useful if you’ve got a headache. It can be used to treat benign prostate enlargement and prostatitis, as well. Saw Palmetto Tea Side Effects You shouldn’t drink saw palmetto tea if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. It can act like a hormone, which might lead to problems. Drinking saw palmetto tea before a surgery is also bad. It might slow down the blood clotting process, which might lead to extra bleeding both during and after the surgery. It is recommended that you stop drinking this tea two weeks before you’ve got a surgery scheduled. Although rare, the possibility of getting an allergic reaction to saw palmetto tea still exists. Symptoms include rashes, itchiness, difficulty in breathing, and swelling of the mouth, tongue or nose. Also, be careful with the amount of saw palmetto tea you drink. The recommended amount is 3-4 cups a day. If you drink too much, you might get some of the following symptoms: dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Saw palmetto tea can easily be used as a daily hot beverage. You’re bound to enjoy both the taste and its many health benefits.... discover saw palmetto tea!

Lamium Album

Linn.

Family: Labiatae; Lamiaceae.

Habitat: West Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.

English: White Dead Nettle, Archangel.

Action: Haemostatic (particularly on the uterus), astringent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, expectorant. Used for menorrhagia, leucorrhoea, cystitis, prostatitis, bleeding piles, diarrhoea, irritable bowel and respiratory catarrh.

Key application: Internally, for catarrh of the upper respiratory passages; externally, for mild, superficial inflammation of the skin. (German Commission E.) Flowers have been recommended for teas and other galenical preparations for internal applications, rinses, baths and moist compresses. As astringent. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

The herb contains iridoid monoterpenes; triterpene saponins; caffeic acid derivatives; flavonoids based on kaem- pferol; tannins (mainly catechins). The plant also gave a carbocyclic iridoid, caryoptoside; besides lambalbide, al- bosides A and B (iridoid monoter- penes).... lamium album

Aids

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Infection by HIV virus may lead to AIDS, but is believed to be not the sole cause of the disease. It strikes by ravaging the body’s defence system, destroying natural immunity by invading the white blood cells and producing an excess of ‘suppressant’ cells. It savages the very cells that under normal circumstances would defend the body against the virus. Notifiable disease. Hospitalisation. AIDS does not kill. By lacking an effective body defence system a person usually dies from another infection such as a rare kind of pneumonia. There are long-term patients, more than ten years after infection with HIV who have not developed AIDS. There are some people on whom the virus appears to be ineffective. The HIV virus is transmitted by infected body fluids, e.g. semen, blood or by transfusion.

A number of co-factors are necessary for AIDS to develop: diet, environment, immoral lifestyle, drugs, etc also dispose to the disease which, when eliminated, suggest that AIDS needs not be fatal. However, there is no known cure. Smoking hastens onset. Causes include needle-sharing and sexual contacts. Also known as the ‘Gay Plague’ it can be transmitted from one member of the family to another non-sexual contact.

The virus kills off cells in the brain by inflammation, thus disposing to dementia.

Symptoms. Onset: brief fever with swollen glands. “Feeling mildly unwell”. This may pass off without incident until recurrence with persistent diarrhoea, night sweats, tender swollen lymph nodes, cough and shortness of breath. There follows weight loss, oral candida. Diagnosis is confirmed by appearance of ugly skin lesions known as Kaposi’s sarcoma – a malignant disease. First indication is the appearance of dark purple spots on the body followed by fungoid growths on mouth and throat.

While some cases of STDs have been effectively treated with phytotherapy, there is evidence to suggest it may be beneficial for a number of reasons. Whatever the treatment, frequent blood counts to monitor T-4 cells (an important part of the immune system) are necessary. While a phytotherapeutic regime may not cure, it is possible for patients to report feeling better emotionally and physically and to avoid some accompanying infections (candida etc).

Treatment. Without a blood test many HIV positives may remain ignorant of their condition for many years. STD clinics offer free testing and confidential counselling.

Modern phytotherapeutic treatment:–

1. Anti-virals. See entry.

2. Enhance immune function.

3. Nutrition: diet, food supplements.

4. Psychological counselling.

To strengthen body defences: Garlic, Echinacea, Lapacho, Sage, Chlorella, Reisha Mushroom, Shiitake Mushroom. Of primary importance is Liquorice: 2-4 grams daily.

Upper respiratory infection: Pleurisy root, Elecampane.

Liver breakdown: Blue Flag root, Milk Thistle, Goldenseal.

Diarrhoea: Bayberry, Mountain Grape, American Cranesbill, Slippery Elm, lactobacillus acidophilus.

Prostatitis: Saw Palmetto, Goldenrod, Echinacea.

Skin lesions: External:– Comfrey, Calendula or Aloe Vera cream.

To help prevent dementia: a common destructive symptom of the disease: agents rich in minerals – Alfalfa, Irish Moss, Ginkgo, St John’s Wort, Calcium supplements.

Nervous collapse: Gotu Kola, Siberian Ginseng, Oats, Damiana.

Ear Inflammation: Echinacea. External – Mullein ear drops.

With candida: Lapacho tea. Garlic inhibits candida.

Anal fissure: Comfrey cream or Aloe Vera gel (external).

Practitioner: Formula. Liquid extract Echinacea 30ml (viral infection) . . . Liquid extract Poke root 10ml (lymphatic system) . . . Liquid extract Blue Flag root 10ml (liver stimulant) . . . Tincture Goldenseal 2ml (inflamed mucous membranes) . . . Liquid extract Guaiacum 1ml (blood enricher) . . . Decoction of Sarsaparilla to 100ml. Sig: 5ml (3i) aq cal pc.

Gargle for sore throat: 5-10 drops Liquid extract or Tincture Echinacea to glass water, as freely as desired.

Abdominal Castor oil packs: claimed to enhance immune system.

Chinese medicine: Huang Qi (astragalus root).

Urethral and vaginal irrigation: 2 drops Tea Tree oil in strong decoction Marshmallow root: 2oz to 2 pints water. Inject warm.

Diet. Vitamin C-rich foods, Lecithin, Egg Yolk, Slippery Elm gruel, Red Beet root, Artichokes. Garlic is particularly indicated as an anti-infective.

Nutrition. Vitamin A is known to increase resistance by strengthening the cell membrane; preferably taken as beta carotene 300,000iu daily as massive doses of Vitamin A can be toxic. Amino acid – Glutathione: Garlic’s L-cysteine relates.

Vitamin C. “The virus is inactivated by this vitamin. Saturating cells infected with the HIV virus with the vitamin results in 99 per cent inactivation of the virus. The vitamin is an anti-viral and immune system modulator without unwanted side-effects. The ascorbate, when added to HIV cells, substantially reduced the virus’s activity without harming the cells at specific concentrations. Patients taking large doses report marked improvement in their condition. Minimum daily oral dose: 10 grams.” (Linus Pauling Institute, Science and Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA)

Periwinkle. An anti-AIDS compound has been detected in the Madagascan Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus), at the Chelsea Physic Garden.

Mulberry. The black Mulberry appears to inhibit the AIDS virus.

Hyssop. An AIDS patient improved to a point where ulcers were healed, blood infection eliminated, and Kaposi’s sarcoma started to clear when her mother gave her a traditional Jamaican tea made from Hyssop, Blessed Thistle and Senna. From test-tube research doctors found that Hyssopus officinalis could be effective in treatment of HIV/AIDS. (Medical Journal Antiviral Research, 1990, 14, 323-37) Circumcision. Studies have shown that uncircumcised African men were more than five to eight times more likely to contract AIDS than were circumcised men; life of the virus being short-lived in a dry environment. (Epidemiologist Thomas Quinn, in Science Magazine)

Study. A group of 13 HIV and AIDS patients received 200mg capsules daily of a combination of Chelidonium (Greater Celandine) 175mg; Sanguinaria (Blood root) 5mg; and Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva) 20mg. More than half the patients enjoyed increased energy and improved immune function with reduction in both size and tenderness of lymph nodes. (D’Adamo P. ‘Chelidonium and Sanguinaria alkaloids as anti-HIV therapy. Journal of Naturopathic Medicine (USA) 3.31-34 1992)

Bastyr College of Naturopathy, Seattle, MA, USA. During 1991 the College carried out a study which claimed that a combination of natural therapies including nutrition, supplements, herbal medicine, hydrotherapy and counselling had successfully inhibited HIV and other viral activity in all patients in controlled trials lasting a year.

Patients chosen for the trial were HIV positive, not on anti-viral drugs and showing symptoms of a compromised immune system, but without frank AIDS (generally taken to be indicated by Karposi’s sarcoma and/or PCP-pneumocystitis carinii pneumonia).

Symptoms included: Lymphadenopathy in at least two sites, oral thrush, chronic diarrhoea, chronic sinusitis, leukoplakia, herpes, night sweats and fatigue.

Assessment was subjective and objective (including T-cell ratio tests). The patients did better than comparable groups in published trials using AZT.

Treatment was naturopathic and herbal. Patients receiving homoeopathy and acupuncture did not do as well as those receiving herbs.

Best results with herbs were: Liquorice (1g powder thrice daily); St John’s Wort (Yerba prima tablets, 3, on two days a week only). Patients reported a great increase in the sense of well-being on St John’s Wort. An equivalent dose of fresh plant tincture would be 10ml. The tincture should be of a good red colour. The College did not use Echinacea, which would stimulate the central immune system and which would therefore be contra-indicated.

Supplements given daily. Calcium ascorbate 3g+ (to bowel tolerance). Beta-carotene 300,000iu. Thymus gland extract tablets 6. Zinc 60mg (with some Copper). B-vitamins and EFAs.

To control specific symptoms: most useful herbs were: Tea Tree oil for fungal infections; Goldenseal and Gentian as bitters. Ephedra and Eyebright for sinusitis. Carob drinks for non-specific enteritis. Vitamin B12 and topical Liquorice for shingles.

Counselling and regular massage were used to maintain a positive spirit. Studies show all long term HIV positive survivors have a positive attitude and constantly work at empowering themselves.

Results showed significant improvements in symptoms suffered by HIV patients despite a slow deterioration in blood status. Methods used in the study had dramatically reduced mortality and morbidity. A conclusion was reached that AIDS may not be curable but it could be manageable. (Reported by Christopher Hedley MNIMH, London NW1 8JD, in Greenfiles Herbal Journal) ... aids

Cactus

Opuntia series, native of Mexico. Differs from Selenicereus (night-blooming cactus) of the West Indies.

Action: Astringent, haemostatic.

Uses: Irritable bowel, mucous colitis, prostatitis.

Preparations: Thrice daily.

Tea: 2-3 dried or fresh flowers to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose, half-1 cup. Liquid Extract. 5-15 drops. ... cactus

Hydronephrosis

One or two-sided swelling of the pelvis of the kidney due to back-pressure from an obstruction (stone, enlarged prostate gland or tumour).

Symptoms. Swelling and pain in the loins.

Treatment. Temporary relief only. Until doctor arrives.

American Cranesbill. Valerian.

Hydronephrosis from prostatitis. Treat Prostate gland.

Hydronephrosis from stone in the kidney. Colic indicates stone. Treat stone. Hydronephrosis from tumour. See Tumour of the Kidney.

Hydronephrosis with infection. Echinacea and Goldenseal. ... hydronephrosis

Doxycycline

A tetracycline drug used in the treatment of chronic prostatitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and chest infection in chronic bronchitis. It is also used to prevent and treat malaria. Taking the drug with food reduces possible side effects.... doxycycline

Prostatectomy

An operation to remove part or all of the prostate gland.

It is performed to treat enlargement of the gland (see prostate, enlarged), cancer of the prostate (see prostate, cancer of), or prostatitis.

The most common method is trans-urethral prostatectomy, performed during cystoscopy.

If the prostate gland is very enlarged, retropubic prostatectomy may be performed.

An incision exposes the prostate and the tissue is removed.

Prostatectomy may affect potency or sexual sensation, though this is not common.

The operation usually causes sterility.... prostatectomy

Have A Cup Of Pipsissewa Tea

If you’re looking for a special herbal tea, you can try pipsissewa tea. It has a pleasant taste, slightly bitter, like most herbal teas, but also a bit sweet. Also, it comes with many health benefits. Read to find out more!

About Pipsissewa Tea

Pipsissewa tea is made from the pipsissewa plant, also known as Umbellate Wintergreen or Prince’s pine. It is a small, evergreen perennial plant, usually found in the dry woodlands or sandy soils of Southern Canada and northern United States.

The plant can grow up to 30cm tall. It usually has 4 evergreen, shiny leaves with a toothed margin; they’re arranged one opposite the other on the stem. It has 4-8 flowers, either pink or white, which bloom during summer.

The pipsissewa plant is used to make root beer. It can also be used to flavor candies and soft drinks.

How to prepare Pipsissewa Tea

You only need a few minutes to prepare a cup of pipsissewa tea. Put a tablespoon of herbs in the cup, then pour freshly boiled water over it. Let it steep for 2-4 minutes; then, strain the drink. Sweeten it with milk or honey, if you wish.

Pipsissewa Tea Benefits

Pipsisewa, as a plant, contains many important constituents which are also transferred to the pipsissewa tea. Some of them are hydroquinones (for example, arbutin), flavonoids, triterpenes, methyl salicylate, phenols, essential oils, and tannins. They have many health benefits.

Pipsissewa teais often recommended in the treatment for infections of the urinary tract, such as cystitis, painful urination, bladder and kidney stones, kidney inflammation, prostatitis, gonorrhea, and urethritis. It can also be used to treat arthritis, gout and rheumatism.

Drinking pipsissewa tea will help your body expel various infectious microorganisms. It can increase sweating in order to treat fever diseases. It is also often included in the treatment for ailments of the respiratory tract, such as colds, whooping cough, and bronchitis.

Pipsissewa tea can be used topically, as well. It can be used with blisters, tumors, and swellings. Also, you can use it as an eye wash if you’ve got sore eyes.

Pipsissewa Tea Side Effects

It is not well-known if pipsissewa tea can affect women during pregnancy or breast feeding. However, it’s considered safe not to drink it, just in case it might affect the baby.

It is best not to drink pipsissewa tea if you’re taking medication for the intestine, or if you’ve got iron deficiency.

Drinking a large amount of pipsissewa tea can also lead to a few side effects. The symptoms you might get are: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and loss of appetite.

You’ll definitely enjoy drinking pipsissewa tea, both for its pleasant taste and because of the health benefits it has.

... have a cup of pipsissewa tea

Opuntia Dillenii

(Ker-Gawl.) Haw.

Synonym: O. stricta Haw. var. dillenii (Ker-Gawl.) Benson.

Family: Cactaceae.

Habitat: Native of Mexico; well- acclimatized throughout India.

English: Prickly Pear, Slipper Thorn.

Ayurvedic: Naagaphani, Kanthaari.

Unani: Naagphani.

Siddha/Tamil: Sappathikalli, Nagathali.

Action: Leaves—applied as poultice to allay inflammation and heat. Fruit—baked and given in whooping cough.

Dried or fresh flowers of cactus (opuntia series)—astringent and haemostatic. An infusion is given in irritable bowel, mucous colitis, and prostatitis. Ash of the aerial portion, mixed with sugar candy, is given for 21 days for birth control in tribal areas of Andhra Pradesh.

The Plant is recommended for growing in high pollution zones for abating sulphur dioxide pollution.

Pods contain a polysaccharide, ar- binogalactan. Betanin has been isolated from ripe fruits. Flowers contain the glycosides of isorhamnetin and quer- cetin, with smal amounts of the free flavonols.... opuntia dillenii

Blennorrhagia

n. a copious discharge of mucus, particularly from the urethra. This usually accompanies *urethritis and sometimes occurs with acute *prostatitis. Treatment is directed to clearing the underlying causative organism by antibiotic administration.... blennorrhagia

Blennorrhoea

n. a profuse watery discharge from the urethra. This, like *blennorrhagia, is associated with either prostatitis or urethritis, and is cleared by the usual measures undertaken in the treatment of these conditions.... blennorrhoea

Prostatorrhoea

n. an abnormal discharge of fluid from the prostate gland. This occurs in some patients with acute *prostatitis, who complain of a profuse discharge from the urethra. The discharge is usually thin and watery and is often sterile on culture. The discharge usually subsides when the underlying prostatitis is controlled.... prostatorrhoea

Vasovesiculitis

n. inflammation of the *seminal vesicles and *vas deferens. This usually occurs in association with *prostatitis and causes pain in the perineum, groin, and scrotum and a high temperature. On examination the vasa and seminal vesicles are thickened and tender. Treatment includes administration of antibiotics.... vasovesiculitis

Petroselinum Crispum

(Mill.) Airy-Shaw.

Synonym: Apium crispum Mill.

Family: Umbelliferae; Apiaceae.

Habitat: Native to Europe, now cultivated throughout India.

English: Parsley.

Unani: Fitraasaaliyum, Karafs-e- Kohi.

Action: Diuretic (used for bladder disorders, painful urination, retention of excess fluid in the tissues), antispasmodic, uterine tonic, emmenagogue, sedative (used for PMS and menopausal hot flushes, also in prostatitis), carminative, expectorant, aperient, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory.

Key application: For flushing out the efferent urinary tract in disorders of the same and in prevention and treatment of kidney gravel. (German Commission E.) Contraindicated in kidney inflammations.

The British Herbal Compendium approves the internal use of the herb for flatulent dyspepsia, dysuria and rheumatic conditions.

The leaves and roots contain furo- coumarins—psoralen, 5-and 8-meth- oxy psoralen, imperatorin, oxypeuce- danin, iso-pimpinelin. Myristicin has been isolated from the leaf oil. The plant gave flavonoids—apiin, luteolin, apigenin-7-glucoside, luteolin-7-glu- coside among others.

Myristicin showed high activity as an inducer of the detoxifying enzyme system, Glutathione S-transferase (GST) in the liver and small intestines of female mice (may be considered as a cancer chemoprotective agent).

The flavonoids, particularly api- genin, have been shown to be anti- inflammatory, to inhibit histamine release and to act as a free radical scavenger. Apiole, a constituent of the volatile oil, is reportedly antipyretic and phthalides of the root, seed and leaf are sedative in mice.

Both apiole and myristicin exhibit aquaretic and uterine stimulant activity, while sodium retention has been observed. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

In homoeopathy, the herb is used for the treatment urinary disorders—sudden urge to urinate with severe pain, dribbling of urine after urination, gleet discharge and for amenorrhoea and neuralgic dysmenorrhoea.... petroselinum crispum

Prostate Gland, Diseases Of

Disease of the PROSTATE GLAND can affect the ?ow of URINE so that patients present with urological symptoms.

Prostatitis This can be either acute or chronic. Acute prostatitis is caused by a bacterial infection, while chronic prostatitis may follow on from an acute attack, arise insidiously, or be non-bacterial in origin.

Symptoms Typically the patient has pain in the PERINEUM, groins, or supra pubic region, and pain on EJACULATION. He may also have urinary frequency, and urgency.

Treatment Acute and chronic prostatitis are treated with a prolonged course of antibiotics. Patients with chronic prostatitis may also require anti-in?ammatory drugs, and antidepressants.

Prostatic enlargement This is the result of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), causing enlargement of the prostate. The exact cause of this enlargement is unknown, but it affects 50 per cent of men between 40 and 59 years and 95 per cent of men over 70 years.

Symptoms These are urinary hesitancy, poor urinary stream, terminal dribbling, frequency and urgency of urination and the need to pass urine at night (nocturia). The diagnosis is made from the patient’s history; a digital examination of the prostate gland via the rectum to assess enlargement; and analysis of the urinary ?ow rate.

Treatment This can be with tablets, which either shrink the prostate – an anti-androgen drug such as ?nasteride – or relax the urinary sphincter muscle during urination. For more severe symptoms the prostate can be removed surgically, by transurethral resection of prostate (TURP), using either electrocautery or laser energy. A new treatment is the use of microwaves to heat up and shrink the enlarged gland.

Cancer Cancer of the prostate is the fourth most common cause of death from cancer in northern European males: more than 10,000 cases are diagnosed every year in the UK and the incidence is rising by 3 per cent annually.

Little is known about the cause, but the majority of prostate cancers require the male hormones, androgens, to grow.

Symptoms These are similar to those resulting from benign prostatic hypertrophy (see above). Spread of the cancer to bones can cause pain. The use of a blood test measuring the amount of an ANTIGEN, PROSTATE SPECIFIC ANTIGEN (PSA), can be helpful in making the diagnosis – as can an ULTRASOUND scan of the prostate.

Treatment This could be surgical, with removal of the prostate (either via an abdominal incision, total prostatectomy, or transurethrally), or could be by radiotherapy. In more advanced cancers, treatment with anti-androgen drugs, such as cyprotexone acetate or certain oestrogens, is used to inhibit the growth of the cancer.... prostate gland, diseases of

Tea For Men

While tea generally has plenty of health benefits, some types of tea have a few benefits especially useful to men. They are meant to treat particular problems only men have to deal with. Discover more about tea for men! Why drink tea for men While medication is known to treat various health problems, tea can work as an important treatment, as well. As a natural beverage, it helps with problems from impotence to erectile disorders. Some types of tea can even work as an aphrodisiac. It’s interesting that the health benefits aren’t related only to the sexual organ and its functions. One type of tea also helps with male pattern baldness! Tea for men Pygeum bark tea is known for its health benefits when it comes to men. It helps with impotence, as it can increase the quantity and quality of the sperm. It can work as an aphrodisiac, and it is also added in the treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Muira puama tea also works as an aphrodisiac, along with damiana tea and ginseng tea. Besides enhancing the sexual performance, muira puama tea has another benefit, quite interesting as well: it helps treat male pattern baldness. Catuaba tea and tribulus tea also help with impotence, while saw palmetto tea and red root tea are added to the treatment for benign prostate enlargement. Also, in the case of prostatitis, you can drink catuaba tea and saw palmetto tea. Rhodiola tea and maca tea help with erectile dysfunction, while tribulus tea and shatavari tea can help with other erectile disorders. Side effects of tea for men Despite the various health benefits these types of tea might have, you have to be careful when drinking some of these teas for men. Some can lead to a few side effects, as well. Muira puama tea, for example, shouldn’t be drunk by people with existing complications of blood pressure levels. It might increase the blood pressure and lead to unwanted problems. Also, as it acts as a stimulant, overconsumption can lead to anxiety and insomnia. Overconsumption of pygeum bark tea may also lead to various side effects: stomach discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, dizziness, headaches, or visual disturbances. It is best to talk with your doctor first, in order to make sure the tea you choose won’t interfere with any medication you might be taking. Also, be careful if you’re scheduled for a surgery: consumption of tea can lead to excessive bleeding during and after the surgery. Make sure you stop drinking tea two weeks before the surgery. Particular types of tea can have many health benefits, even for men. It can help with various health problems, which should encourage men to drink more tea - especially tea for men!... tea for men

Zea Mays

Linn.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: Native to South America. Grown as a food crop mainly in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.

English: Maize, Corn, Indian Corn.

Ayurvedic: Mahaa-Kaaya.

Unani: Makkaa, Zurraa Makkaa.

Action: Corn Silk—diuretic, urinary demulcent, antilithic. Used for cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, irritation of the urinary tract by phosphatic and uric acids, nephritis, uncontrollable bladder, retention, pus in the urine, bed-wetting.

The corn silk gave saponins; alan- toin; sterols, especially beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol; alkaloid hordenine; polyphenols; mucilage; potassium; vitamin C and K; cryptoxanthin, antho- cyanins, plant acids, tannin.

The glycoproteins, seperated from corn silk, inhibited IgE antibody formation and enhanced IgG and IgM formation; they showed antiviral and antitumour activities.... zea mays

Couch Grass

Twitch. Triticum repens. Agropyron repens (Beauvais). German: Quecke. French: Chiendent. Spanish: Grama. Italian: Caprinella. Dried or fresh rhizome.

Constituents: volatile oil, Vitamin A.

Keynote: bladder and kidneys. This is the grass to which a dog is said to go instinctively when sick, hence its name – dog grass.

Action: Soothing demulcent diuretic for simple inflammation of the urinary tract. Uric acid solvent. Laxative. Urinary antiseptic. Nutritive, emollient. Anti-cholesterol.

Uses: Cystitis, nephritis, urethritis, painful and incontinent urination, liver disorder, renal colic, kidney stone, gravel, gout, rheumatism, backache. Reduction of blood cholesterol. Chronic skin disorders.

Combines with Hydrangea (equal parts) for prostatitis.

Herbal tea for kidneys and bladder: Couchgrass 15 per cent; Buchu 15 per cent; Wild Carrot 15 per cent; Bearsfoot 15 per cent; Alfalfa 45 per cent. 2 teaspoons to each cup water, gently simmer 5 minutes. Half-2 cups thrice daily.

Preparations: Thrice daily.

Decoction. 2-3 teaspoons to each cup water, gently simmer 5 minutes. 1-2 cups.

Liquid Extract BHP (1983) 1:1 in 25 per cent alcohol. Dose: 4-8ml.

Tincture BHP (1983) 1:5 in 40 per cent alcohol. Dose: 5-15ml (1-3 teaspoons).

Powder. 250mg in capsules; 3 capsules thrice daily. (Arkocaps)

Kasbah remedy. Alpine herb teabags.

Antitis tablets (Potter’s) ... couch grass

Damiana

Curzon. Turnera diffusa Willd. Leaves and stems.

Constituents: flavonoids, volatile oil, arbutin.

Action: aphrodisiac, antidepressant, diuretic, stomachic, thymoleptic BHP (1983), stimulating tonic to the central nervous system and reproductive organs.

Uses: To enhance sexual performance, especially in the male. Impotence, frigidity, sterility, prostatitis, physical weakness and nervous exhaustion. Depression, anxiety states.

Combines well with Skullcap and Oats for senile dementia and feeble constitution. Traditional combination: (equal parts), Damiana, Saw Palmetto and Kola.

Preparations: Thrice daily.

Tea. 1 teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup.

Liquid extract. Half-1 teaspoon.

Tincture. 1-2 teaspoons, in water.

Tablets/capsules. One 300mg capsule or capsules after meals thrice daily. ... damiana

Goldenseal

Yellow root. Eye Balm. Hydrastis canadensis L. Dried rhizome and roots. One of phytotherapy’s most effective agents. Versatile, with a wide sphere of influence.

Constituents: berberine, hydrastine, canadine, resin.

Action: alterative, choleretic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, bacteriostatic against staphyococcus. (Complementary Medical Research Vol 2, No 2, p.139) Bitter, diuretic, haemostatic, laxative, oxytocic, powerful stomach and liver tonic, detoxifier. Increases blood supply to the spleen. Uses. Mucous membranes generally. Ulceration of mouth, throat, intestines. Heartburn, chronic dyspepsia, gastric and duodenal ulcer, diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis, liver damage. To assist function of old age. Drying to mucous surfaces and therefore indicated in all forms of catarrh (respiratory, vaginal etc). Proteinuria. Painful, excessive menstruation and bleeding from the womb for which the addition of Beth root (equal parts) enhances action. Itching of anus and genitals. Ear infections: internal and topical medication. Prostatitis. Bleeding gums. Tinnitus. Has a long history for use in sexually transmitted diseases. Once used to stimulate contractions of the womb to hasten delivery.

Preparations: Standard dose: half-1 gram. Thrice daily.

Decoction. Quarter to half a teaspoon dried rhizome to each cup water simmered gently in a covered vessel 20 minutes. Dose: half a cup.

Liquid Extract, BHC Vol 1. 1:1 in 60 per cent ethanol; 0.3-1ml, (5-15 drops).

Tincture, BHC Vol 1. 1:10, 60 per cent ethanol; 2-4ml, (15-60 drops).

Formula. Popular. All BHP (1983) standard powders:– Marshmallow root 100mg; Goldenseal 10mg; Cranesbill 30mg; Dandelion root 60mg. Traditional for the relief of indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, nausea and gastric irritation.

Powder. Dose: half-1g.

Lotion. Equal parts, Tincture Goldenseal and glycerine. For painting mouth, throat and lesions elsewhere. Goldenseal solution. 250mg powder shaken in 3oz Rosewater or Witch Hazel: filter. 5-10 drops in eyebath half-filled with water; douche 3 or more times daily.

Goldenseal ointment. 1 teaspoon (5ml) tincture in 1oz Vaseline; dissolve in gentle heat.

Mouth Wash. 5-10 drops tincture in glass water.

Vaginal douche or enema. 10 drops tincture to 2 pints boiled water; inject warm.

Notes. Liquid extract may be used instead of tincture, in which case half quantity is used. Not given in pregnancy, lactation or high blood pressure Not given with Eucalyptus to which it is antagonistic.

GSL, schedule 1

“GONE ALL TO PIECES” SYNDROME. Nervous disarray and weakness from severe emotional or physical shock.

Tablet: 45mg each, Skullcap, Lupulin, Hydrocotyle; and the aqueous extractive from: 90mg Gentian, 75mg Jamaica Dogwood. ... goldenseal

Gravel Root

Eupatorium purpureum, L. Keynote: stone. Rhizome and root.

Constituents: Eupatorin, resin, volatile oil, flavonoids.

Action: antilithic, antirheumatic, soothing diuretic, astringent.

Uses: Stone in the kidney, gravel, stricture, urethritis, painful urination, prostatitis, lumbago of kidney origin, rheumatism, gout. Some success in diabetes. For stone: combines well with Parsley Piert, Pellitory and Hydrangea BHP (1983).

Preparations: Average dose: 2-4 grams. Thrice daily.

Decoction. 1 teaspoon to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Dose: half cup. Liquid extract. 2-4ml.

Tincture BHP (1983) 1:5 in 40 per cent alcohol. Dose: 1-2ml (15-30 drops). ... gravel root

Horsetail

Shave grass. Pewterwort. Nature’s hoover. Equisetum arvense L. German: Ackerschachtelhalm. French: Equisette. Spanish: Belcho. Italian: rasperella. Chinese: We?n-ching. Dried stems. Keynote: genito-urinary system. A natural source of silicic acid, ashes containing 70 per cent silica soluble in water and alcohol.

Constituents: flavonoids, alkaloids, sterols, silicic acid.

Action: haemostatic for bleeding of genitourinary organs, styptic, a soothing non-irritating diuretic. Increases coagulability of the blood. Remineraliser. Anti-atheroma. Antirheumatic. Astringent. Immune enhancer. White blood cell stimulator.

Uses: Blood in the urine, prostatitis, bed-wetting, dropsy, chronic bladder infections, incontinence in the aged, catarrh of the urinary organs, gravel, urethritis of sexual transmission with bleeding, stricture, severe pain in the bladder unrelieved by passing water, constant desire to pass water without relief. Carcinoma of the womb: cure reported. Foetid discharges of STD. Arteriosclerosis.

Silica, as in Horsetail, preserves elasticity of connective tissue; controls absorption of calcium and is a necessary ingredient of nails, hair, teeth and the skeleton. Its cleansing properties rapidly remove urates, uric acid and cellulites from the system. Hastens repair of tissue after lung damage of tuberculosis or other diseases.

Combinations. (1) With Shepherd’s Purse for blood in the urine. (2) With Pulsatilla to inhibit growth of uterine fibroid. (3) With Buchu for cystitis. (4) With Oats and Goldenseal for renal exhaustion. “Combines well with Hydrangea for non-malignant prostatitis.” (F. Fletcher Hyde) Arteriosclerosis. (Dr Max Rombi)

Preparations: Horsetail has a heavy mineral content (silica, selenium and zinc) therefore treatment is best staggered so as to avoid kidney strain – one month, followed by one week’s break. Average dose: 1 to 4 grams; thrice daily.

Tea: half-1 teaspoon to cup water; bring to boil; simmer 5 minutes; infuse 30 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup, cold.

Liquid extract BHC Vol 1. 1:1 in 25 per cent ethanol. Dose: 1-4ml (15-60 drops).

Home tincture: 1 part herb to 5 parts 25 per cent alcohol (gin, Vodka, etc). Steep 14 days, shake daily. Dose: 2-5ml (30-75 drops) in water.

Poultice: “Place double handful herb in a sieve and place over a pot of boiling water (double boiler, etc). The soft hot herbs are placed between a piece of linen and applied to ulcer, adenoma, cyst or tumour.” (Maria Treben)

Bath. 9oz leaves: bring to boil in 1 gallon water. Simmer 5 minutes; strain. Add to bath water.

Enema: 1 pint weak tea for infants with kidney disorders. ... horsetail

Hydrangea

Seven Barks. Hydrangea arborescens L. Dried root. Keynotes: gravel, prostatitis. Constituents: gum, resin, flavonoids, ferrous salts, phosphoric acids. Contains no tannins.

Action: antilithic, diuretic, sialagogue.

Uses: Used by the Cherokee Indians for gravel in the urine. Survived to be an important medicine in the modern herbalist’s dispensary. “As many as 120 calculi have been known to come from one person under its use.” (Mrs M. Grieve) Prostatitis (important agent). Incontinence, catarrh of the bladder, uric acid diathesis, blood in the urine, diabetes (supportive to primary treatment).

Combines well with Barberry bark (equal parts) for prostatitis; with Gravel root (equal parts) for gravel.

Preparations: Average dose: 2-4 grams. Thrice daily.

Decoction. 1 teaspoon to each cup water; simmer gently 20 minutes. Dose: half a cup. Often taken as a preventative by those prone to form stone.

Liquid Extract. Quarter-1 teaspoon in water.

Tincture BHP (1983). 1:5 in 45 per cent alcohol. Dose: 2-10ml in water. ... hydrangea

Life Root

Squaw weed. Senecio aureus L. Dried herb. Keynote: menopause.

Constituents: sesquiterpenes, pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Action: Tonic for relaxed womb, emmenagogue, astringent, mild expectorant.

Uses: Hot flushes of the menopause with nervous instability. Absent, painful or profuse menstruation. Ovarian pain. Stone, gravel. Diarrhoea. Bleeding from mucous surfaces. Prostatitis.

Combinations: with Motherwort for suppressed menses. With Oats for menopause. Preparations. Average dose: 1-4 grams. Thrice daily.

Tea: half-2 teaspoons to cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Dose: half-1 cup. Liquid Extract. Half-1 teaspoon, in water.

Powder: 1-4 grams.

Not now used internally. ... life root

Gonorrhoea

One of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Gonorrhoea, caused by the bacterium NEISSERIA GONORRHOEAE, is most often transmitted during sexual activity, including oral and anal sex. An infected woman may also transmit the disease to her baby during childbirth.Gonorrhoea has an incubation period of 2–10 days. In men, symptoms include a discharge from the urethra and pain on passing urine. Many infected women have no symptoms; if symptoms are present, they usually consist of vaginal discharge or a burning sensation on passing urine. Infection acquired by anal sex can cause gonococcal proctitis. Oral sex with an infected person may lead to gonococcal pharyngitis. A baby exposed to infection during its birth may acquire the eye infection gonococcal ophthalmia.

Untreated gonorrhoea may spread to other parts of the body. In men, it may cause prostatitis or epididymo-orchitis, affecting fertility. In women, untreated gonorrhoea results in pelvic inflammatory disease, causing damage to the fallopian tubes. This increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy and may lead to infertility. Gonococcal bacteria in the bloodstream may result in septicaemia or septic arthritis.

Tests are performed on a sample of discharge or on swabs taken from the urethra, cervix, or rectum in order to confirm the diagnosis. Gonorrhoea is treated with antibiotic drugs.... gonorrhoea

Haematuria

Blood in the urine, which may or may not be visible to the naked eye. In small amounts, it may give the urine a smoky appearance.

Almost any urinary tract disorder can cause haematuria. Urinary tract infection is a common cause; prostatitis may be a cause in men. Cysts, kidney tumours, bladder tumours, stones (see calculus, urinary tract), and glomerulonephritis may cause haematuria. Bleeding disorders may also cause the condition.

Blood that is not visible to the naked eye may be detected by a dipstick urine test or microscopic examination. CT scanning, ultrasound scanning, or intravenous urography can help determine the cause. If bladder disease is suspected, cystoscopy is performed.... haematuria

Intercourse, Painful

Pain during sexual intercourse, known medically as dyspareunia, which can affect both men and women. Pain may be superficial (around the external genitals) or deep (within the pelvis).

In men, superficial pain may be due to anatomical abnormalities such as chordee (bowed erection) or phimosis (tight foreskin). Prostatitis may cause a widespread pelvic ache, a burning sensation in the penis, or pain on ejaculation.

Scarring (after childbirth, for example) and lack of vaginal lubrication, especially after the menopause, may cause painful intercourse in women. Psychosexual dysfunction may also cause pain during intercourse. Vaginismus, a condition in which the muscles of the vagina go into spasm, is usually psychological in origin. Deep pain is frequently caused by pelvic disorders (such as fibroids, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, or pelvic inflammatory disease due to sexually transmitted infections), disorders of the ovary (such as ovarian cysts), and disorders of the cervix. Other causes are cystitis and urinary tract infections.Treatment is directed at the underlying cause of the pain.

If the discomfort is psychological in origin, special counselling may be needed (see sex therapy).... intercourse, painful

Nongonococcal Urethritis

Formerly known as nonspecific urethritis, inflammation of the urethra due to a cause other than gonorrhoea. Worldwide, nongonococcal urethritis is a very common type of sexually transmitted infection.Almost 50 per cent of cases are known to be caused by chlamydia trachomatis (see chlamydial infections); others are caused by the virus that causes herpes simplex, trichomonas vaginalis infections

(see trichomoniasis), or other microorganisms. In the remainder of cases, the cause remains unknown.

In men, the infection usually causes a clear or a purulent urethral discharge, often accompanied by pain or discomfort on passing urine. The equivalent condition in women, called nonspecific genital infection, may not cause symptoms unless there are complications.

Treatment may be difficult if the cause of symptoms cannot be determined. Antibiotic drugs, such as doxycycline and erythromycin, are given. Follow-up visits may be advised after treatment.

In men, epididymitis, prostatitis and urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra) can occur as complications of nongonococcal urethritis. Reiter’s syndrome (in which there is arthritis and conjunctivitis as well as urethritis) occurs as a complication in some men who develop nongonococcal urethritis.

In women, pelvic inflammatory disease and cysts of the Bartholin’s glands may occur. Ophthalmia neonatorum, a type of conjunctivitis, sometimes develops in babies born to women with chlamydial cervicitis.... nongonococcal urethritis

Urinary Retention

Inability to empty the bladder or difficulty in doing so. Urinary retention may be complete (urine cannot be passed voluntarily at all) or incomplete (the bladder fails to empty completely). In males, causes include phimosis, urethral stricture, prostatitis, a stone in the bladder (see calculus, urinary tract), and enlargement or tumour of the prostate (see prostate, enlarged; prostate, cancer of). In females, causes include pressure on the urethra from uterine fibroids or from a fetus. In either sex, the cause may be a bladder tumour. Retention may also be due to defective functioning of the nerve pathways supplying the bladder as a result of general or spinal anaesthesia, drugs affecting the bladder, surgery, injury to the nerve pathways, or disease of the spinal cord.

Complete retention causes discomfort and lower abdominal pain, except when nerve pathways are defective. The full bladder can be felt above the pubic bone. However, chronic or partial retention may not cause any serious symptoms. Retention can lead to kidney damage and, often, a urinary tract infection.Treatment of retention is by catheterization (see catheterization, urinary).

The cause is then investigated.

Obstruction can usually be treated; if nerve damage is the cause, permanent or intermittent catheterization is sometimes necessary.... urinary retention

Urination, Painful

Pain or discomfort that occurs when urine is being passed. Painful urination is known medically as dysuria. The pain is often described as burning; sometimes it is preceded by difficulty in starting urine flow. Pain after the flow has ceased, with a strong desire to continue, is called strangury.

The most common cause, especially in women, is cystitis. Other causes include a bladder tumour, bladder stone (see calculus, urinary tract), urethritis, balanitis, prostatitis, vaginal candidiasis (thrush), or allergy to vaginal deodorants. Strangury is usually caused by spasm of an inflamed bladder wall, but it may be due to bladder stones. Mild discomfort when passing urine may be caused by highly concentrated urine.

Dysuria may be investigated by physical examination, urinalysis, urography, or cystoscopy. (See also urethral syndrome, acute.)... urination, painful




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