prostate with fever

Overview

Prostatitis is swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped organ in men that helps make semen. When it's caused by an infection, you may get a fever along with other symptoms.

Prostatitis is fairly common, especially in men under 50. It affects about 1 in 10 men at some point in their lives.

It mainly affects men of any age, but it is more common in younger and middle-aged men. Men with a history of urinary tract infections or prostate problems are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Fever and chills
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Frequent or urgent need to pee
• Cloudy or bloody urine
• Pain in the lower back, belly, or between the testicles and anus
• Trouble starting or stopping urine stream

Symptoms in children

• Prostatitis is very rare in children. If a boy has fever and pain when peeing, it might be a urinary tract infection rather than prostatitis.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older men, symptoms may be less clear and might include only fever, confusion, or a general feeling of being unwell.

Causes

Main causes

• Bacterial infection – bacteria from a urinary tract infection or sexually transmitted infection can enter the prostate.
• Sometimes the cause is not known (nonbacterial prostatitis).

Risk factors

• Being sexually active and having multiple partners
• Using a urinary catheter
• Having a urinary tract infection
• Having an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
• Pelvic injury or surgery

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Fever with difficulty peeing or pain in the pelvic area
• Cannot pee at all

Book a routine appointment if:

• Frequent or painful urination that lasts more than a few days
• Persistent pelvic discomfort

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam. They may also perform a digital rectal exam (DRE) to feel if your prostate is swollen or tender.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test to check for infection
• Blood test (including PSA test) to look for signs of inflammation
• Sometimes a swab from the urethra to test for STIs

What to expect at your appointment

The exam may feel a bit uncomfortable but is quick and safe. Your doctor will explain everything before they start. Most men find it less painful than they expected.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of prostatitis. If it's caused by bacteria, you will need antibiotics. For chronic or nonbacterial prostatitis, the focus is on managing symptoms.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria
• Rest and avoid straining while urinating
• Take a warm bath to ease pelvic discomfort
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods as they can irritate the bladder

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics (usually for 4 to 6 weeks for acute cases). They might also recommend pain relievers or medicines to relax the prostate and help you pee more easily. Always take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and finish the course, even if you feel better.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. It may be considered if you have an abscess (a pocket of pus) in the prostate or if other treatments do not work.

Living with this condition

Most people with acute prostatitis recover fully within a few weeks. For chronic prostatitis, symptoms may come and go. Working with your doctor can help you manage flare-ups.

Lifestyle tips

• Take all medicines as directed
• Practice good hygiene to prevent infections
• Urinate when you feel the urge – don't hold it in

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet and staying active can help your immune system. Avoid heavy lifting or cycling during an acute flare-up, as it may worsen pain.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Ongoing pelvic pain can be frustrating and affect your mood. It's normal to feel anxious or depressed. Talk to your doctor if you are struggling emotionally.

Prevention

Not all cases can be prevented, but you can reduce your risk by staying hydrated, practising safe sex, and getting prompt treatment for urinary tract infections.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for prostatitis. If you have symptoms, see a doctor.

Complications

If left untreated

• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Abscess (pus pocket) in the prostate
• Long-term pelvic pain
• Trouble urinating that may need emergency care

Long-term outlook

With proper treatment, most men with acute bacterial prostatitis recover completely. Chronic prostatitis can take longer to manage, but symptoms usually improve with time and treatment. Your doctor will help you find what works best for you.

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