15319 Prostatitis

Overview

Prostatitis is the medical term for swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the prostate gland. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped organ in men that produces fluid for semen. Prostatitis can cause pain in the pelvic area, problems with urination, and other symptoms.

Yes. It is one of the most common urinary problems in men under 50, and about one in ten men will experience it at some point in their lives.

Prostatitis most often affects men between 30 and 50, but it can happen in younger and older men. People with a prostate can get it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain or a burning feeling when you urinate
• A frequent and urgent need to urinate, especially at night
• Pain in the lower belly, lower back, or pelvic area
• Pain during or after ejaculation
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever and tiredness (more common in acute bacterial prostatitis)

Symptoms in children

• Prostatitis is very rare in children. If a boy has pelvic pain or trouble urinating, it is more likely a different problem. For any urinary symptoms in a child, see a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older men, symptoms may include a weak urine stream, a feeling of not emptying the bladder, or frequent urination at night. These can also be signs of an enlarged prostate, so a full check-up is important.

Causes

Main causes

• Bacterial infection – bacteria can enter the prostate from the urinary tract
• Inflammation without infection – sometimes called chronic pelvic pain syndrome
• Muscle tightness or nerve irritation in the pelvic floor
• Sometimes the exact cause is unknown

Risk factors

• Recent bladder infection or urinary tract infection
• Use of a urinary catheter
• Dehydration
• Stress or anxiety
• Injury to the pelvis from exercise or a fall

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a high fever with chills
• If you cannot urinate at all
• If you feel confused or very unwell

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have pain or burning when urinating
• If you need to urinate more often than usual
• If you have pain in your pelvis, lower back, or during ejaculation
• If you notice blood in your urine

Diagnosis

To diagnose prostatitis, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may do a gentle physical exam to check for tenderness or swelling in your prostate. This exam helps them tell the difference between prostatitis and other prostate problems.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test to check for bacteria or blood
• Blood test to look for signs of infection
• A test that measures how well you empty your bladder (sometimes called a uroflowmetry)
• An ultrasound or other imaging if symptoms are severe or unclear

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain each step before doing it. A digital rectal examination can feel a little uncomfortable but usually takes less than a minute. You may also be asked to give a urine sample. Try not to worry – the whole appointment is simple and confidential.

Treatment

Treatment for prostatitis depends on the type. For bacterial prostatitis, the main treatment is medicine to clear the infection. For nonbacterial prostatitis, the focus is on relieving pain, relaxing your pelvic floor, and reducing stress. Many people improve with a combination of treatment and self-care.

Self-care at home

• Take warm baths to relax muscles and ease pain
• Drink plenty of water to help flush your urinary tract
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods if they worsen symptoms
• Sit on a cushion or donut ring to reduce pressure
• Do gentle stretching or walking to relax your pelvic area

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is found. For pain relief, they might suggest an over-the-counter pain medicine that is safe for you. They may also prescribe medicines to relax your prostate or reduce bladder spasms. Always take medicines exactly as directed and talk to your doctor if you have any side effects.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not usually needed for prostatitis. In rare cases, if an abscess (collection of pus) forms or if you are unable to pass urine, a small procedure may be necessary. Your doctor will explain the options clearly if this applies to you.

Living with this condition

Living with prostatitis can be frustrating, especially when symptoms come and go. Try to be kind to yourself and give treatments enough time to work. Many men find that symptoms improve significantly over a few weeks or months.

Lifestyle tips

• Drink enough water every day
• Move around regularly and avoid sitting for long periods
• Empty your bladder fully when you urinate
• Find ways to relax, such as deep breathing or meditation
• Stay active with low-impact exercises like walking or swimming

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Some men find that cutting back on caffeine, very spicy food, and acidic drinks helps their symptoms. Regular gentle exercise can improve blood flow and reduce tension in your pelvic area. Listen to your body and rest when you need it.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Chronic prostatitis can affect your mood, sleep, and relationships. It is completely normal to feel anxious, embarrassed, or low. Talk to your doctor, a counsellor, or someone you trust. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent prostatitis, especially the nonbacterial type. But you can lower your risk of urinary tract infections by staying hydrated, going to the toilet as soon as you feel the need, and avoiding unprotected sex if it increases infection risk. Reducing stress and avoiding long periods of sitting may help with pelvic pain.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for prostatitis. If you are having urinary symptoms, speak to your doctor rather than waiting for them to go away.

Complications

If left untreated

• The infection may spread to the bloodstream (a serious condition called sepsis)
• Pus may build up in the prostate (an abscess)
• You may not be able to urinate (acute urinary retention)
• Chronic pain may persist and affect your daily life and mood

Long-term outlook

Most men improve with treatment. Acute bacterial prostatitis is often cured completely with the right medicine. Chronic prostatitis may take longer and can come and go, but many men find good symptom control. With a combination of medical care, self-care, and support, you can still live a full and active life.

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