Understanding Seminal Vesiculitis: Symptoms and Treatments
Seminal vesiculitis is a common infection affecting men, particularly those aged between 20 and 40. The primary clinical manifestation of this condition is hematospermia, which is the presence of blood in semen. This condition can present in both acute and chronic forms, and the clinical symptoms can vary significantly among individuals.
Symptoms of Seminal Vesiculitis
Patients with seminal vesiculitis may experience a range of symptoms, including:
1. Pain
Acute cases typically present with lower abdominal pain, which is often associated with the perineum and groin on both sides. Chronic sufferers may feel a dull ache in the suprapubic area, accompanied by discomfort in the perineum. Notably, pain often intensifies during ejaculation.
2. Urinary Issues
Those with acute seminal vesiculitis commonly report urinary urgency, pain, and difficulty during urination. Chronic cases may present with frequent urination, urgency, and a burning sensation during urination.
3. Hematospermia
Blood may appear in the semen, presenting as pink or red discoloration, or even in clots. This symptom is usually more pronounced in acute cases.
4. Other Symptoms
Acute seminal vesiculitis may also cause systemic symptoms such as fever and chills, and in some cases, the presence of blood in urine. Chronic cases can manifest through pain during ejaculation, decreased libido, nocturnal emissions, and premature ejaculation.
Diagnosis and Testing
Diagnosis typically involves tests such as semen analysis that reveal elevated red and white blood cells. A positive bacterial culture of semen can also indicate infection. Routine blood tests may show a significant increase in white blood cell count, particularly in acute cases. During a digital rectal exam, swollen seminal vesicles may be palpated, often causing pain upon pressure in the suprapubic and perineal regions.
How to Overcome Seminal Vesiculitis
Here are some effective measures to address and manage seminal vesiculitis:
1. Appropriate Antibiotics
In acute cases, antibiotics should be continued for an additional one to two weeks after symptoms subside. For chronic seminal vesiculitis, treatment may need to extend beyond four weeks to ensure effectiveness.
2. Local Treatments
Utilizing medications such as berberine through enema can help. Applying a moistened gauze soaked in 1% berberine to the perineum, combined with iontophoresis, can also assist in treatment. This therapy should be done for 20 minutes daily, preferably 10 times. Warm sitz baths (around 42°C) can enhance local blood circulation, promoting inflammation relief.
3. Bed Rest
Ensuring sufficient rest and possibly using laxatives for smooth bowel movements can be beneficial.
4. Limit Sexual Activity
Reducing sexual activity is crucial to avoid congestion in the pelvic area. Chronic patients may benefit from regular (once or twice a week) prostate and seminal vesicle massages, enhancing blood circulation and aiding in the expulsion of inflammatory substances.
5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Adopting a balanced routine, avoiding alcohol, smoking, and spicy foods is essential for overall health and recovery.
6. Alleviate Anxiety
It is important to address patients' concerns, especially regarding hematospermia, to boost their confidence in overcoming the condition.
7. Treatment for Hematospermia
In cases of hematospermia, medications such as ethinyl estradiol in combination with hormone therapy may be administered orally, taken three times daily for two to three weeks, often helping to halt the bleeding.
Managing seminal vesiculitis, particularly when it coexists with chronic prostatitis, requires ongoing commitment and care. Patients should maintain confidence in their capacity to recover, as neglecting treatment can lead to complications such as secondary infertility, causing lasting regret.