By Livwell Clinic, Urology
What is Prostate Infection?
Prostate infection or prostatitis takes place when the prostate (a gland which encompasses the bladder’s neck) becomes inflamed. The symptoms and types of infection vary. While some men report intense pain, others have no symptoms whatsoever.
The prostate is that of a walnut size and is located between the base of the penis and the bladder. The urethra runs through the center of the prostate. This is the long tube which connects the bladder to the penis, allowing the urine to flow. The prostate is a significant part of the male reproductive system.
Few Causes:
- Bacterial Infection: Bacteria may enter into the prostate through the urethra at the time of the urine flowing into the prostatic ducts, thus causing this disease.
- Catheter: Using a catheter (a long flexible tube inserted into the bladder through a narrow opening on the body) puts one at higher risks of this infection.
- Sexually Transmitted Disease: STDs cause bladder infection or bladder obstruction to a great degree, thus increasing risks of this disorder.
- Enlarged Prostate: Prostate infections can be common in case of an enlarged prostate or any other infection in the particular area.
Symptoms:
- Chills, fever and a flushing skin.
- Pain in the genitals, back or the abdomen.
- Difficulty in urination, frequent urination or a burning sensation while urinating.
- Pain during bowel movement or ejaculation (discharge of semen).
- Presence of blood in urine.
- Pain with ejaculation.
Seek medical care immediately if you come across any of the aforementioned symptoms because the infection may be spreading to other areas of the body.
Treatment Methods:
- In case of bacterial prostatitis, antimicrobial medications can help.
- Surgery is recommended if the problem is acute, such as in the case of bladder blockage.
- Prostatic massages or warm baths can also help in case of mild prostate infections.
- Alpha-blockers or anti-inflammatory medications help in relaxing muscle tissues and provide relief to the prostate gland.
Prostatitis is a treatable disease. Even if the problem cannot be cured, you can at least get relief from the symptoms by following the recommended treatment properly. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a urologist and ask a free question.