Prostate symptoms in men Prostatitis is swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland, a walnut-sized gland located directly under the bladder in men. The prostate gland produces semen, which nourishes and transports sperm. Prostatitis often causes painful or difficult urination. Other symptoms include pain in the groin, pelvic area, or genitals, and sometimes flu-like symptoms.
Prostate symptoms in men
Prostatitis affects men of all ages but tends to be more common in men 50 or younger. The condition has a number of causes. Sometimes the cause is not identified. If prostatitis is caused by a bacterial infection, it can usually be treated with antibiotics.
Depending on the cause, prostatitis can develop gradually or suddenly. It may get better quickly, either on its own or with treatment. Some types of prostatitis last for months or keep recurring and become chronic.
Causes of the prostate in men
Acute bacterial prostatitis is often caused by common strains of bacteria. The infection may start when bacteria in the urine leak into the prostate. Antibiotics are used to treat infection. If the bacteria are not killed, prostatitis may recur or be difficult to treat.
Nerve damage in the lower urinary tract, which can occur due to surgery or trauma to the area, may contribute to prostatitis not caused by a bacterial infection. In many cases of prostatitis, the cause has not been identified.
Prostate symptoms in men
Signs and symptoms of prostatitis depend on the cause. It can include:
Pain or burning when urinating (dysuria)Difficulty urinating, such as dribbling or frequent urinationFrequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)Urgent need to urinatecloudy urineblood in urinePain in the abdomen, groin, or lower backPain in the area between the scrotum and rectum (perineum)painful ejaculationPain or discomfort in the penis or testiclesFlu-like signs and symptoms (with bacterial prostatitis)
When do you see a doctor?
If you have pelvic pain, difficult or painful urination, or painful ejaculation, see your doctor. If left untreated, some types of prostatitis may worsen infection or other health problems.
Risk factors for prostate infection in menBeing young or middle agedYou have had prostatitis in the pastHaving an infection in the bladder or the tube that carries semen and urine to the penis (urethra)Trauma to the pelvis, such as from cycling or horseback ridingUsing a tube inserted into the urethra to drain the bladder (urinary catheter)HIV/AIDS infection
Prostate complications in men
Complications of prostatitis can include:
Bacterial infection of the blood (bacteremia)Inflammation of the coiled tube attached to the back of the testicle (epididymitis)A pus-filled cavity in the prostate (prostatic abscess)Semen abnormalities and infertility, which can occur with chronic prostatitisThere is no direct evidence that prostatitis can lead to prostate cancer.
Prostate treatment for men
Prostatitis treatments depend on the underlying cause. It can include:
Antibiotics. Taking antibiotics is the most common treatment for prostatitis. Your doctor will choose medication based on the type of bacteria that may be causing your infection.If you have severe symptoms, you may need intravenous (IV) antibiotics. You’ll likely need to take oral antibiotics for four to six weeks but may need longer treatment for chronic or recurrent prostatitis.Alpha blockers. These medications help relax the bladder neck and muscle fibers where the prostate meets the bladder. This treatment may relieve symptoms, such as painful urination.Anti-inflammatory agents. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may make you more comfortable.
Lifestyle and home remedies for the prostate in menSoak in a warm bath (sitz bath) or use a heating pad.Limit or avoid caffeine and spicy or acidic foods, which can irritate the bladder.Avoid activities that can irritate the prostate, such as prolonged sitting or cycling.Drink plenty of caffeine-free drinks. This will increase urination and help flush bacteria from the bladder
