LIFESTYLE NEWS - Acute prostatitis is the sudden onset of inflammation in the prostate.
The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped organ located at the base of the bladder, in front of the rectum. The prostate provides 70% of the fluid for ejaculation. Contraction of the prostate during ejaculation prevents semen from flowing backward into the bladder. Any bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI) can cause prostatitis. STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can also cause acute bacterial prostatitis.
- Epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis, the tube that connects the testicles and the vas deferens)
- Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)
- Injury to the perineum (the area between the scrotum and the rectum)
- Urinary catheters or cystoscopy
- Inability to pull back the foreskin of the penis (phimosis)
- Bladder outlet obstruction (can occur with an enlarged prostate or stones in the bladder)
The symptoms of acute prostatitis are:
- Chills
- Fever
- Pelvic pain
- Blood in the urine
- Urinary frequency
- Painful urination
- Foul-smelling urine
- Decreased urinary stream
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Difficulty when starting to urinate
- Painful ejaculation
- Blood in the semen
- Discomfort with bowel movements
- Pain above the pubic bone
- Pain in the genitals, rectum, or testicles
Acute bacteria prostatitis is treated with antibiotics for four to six weeks. The treatment may last longer if you have recurrent episodes. The type of antibiotic depends on the bacteria causing your prostatitis.
To relieve your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe alpha-blockers. These drugs relax bladder muscles and decrease urinary discomfort. Examples of alpha-blockers include doxazosin, terazosin, and tamsulosin. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen may help with discomfort, too.
Other treatments such as heat treatment using a microwave device, and medications from certain plant extracts are also being evaluated.
- Avoid bicyling. Adjust your bike seat and wear padded shorts to decrease pressure on the prostate
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and foods that are spicy and acidic
- Sit on a pillow or doughnut cushion
- Take warm (sitz) baths
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