Prostatitis means an inflamed or infected prostate

Prostatitis is the name for a group of symptoms that occur due to an inflamed or infected prostate. The condition can be acute or chronic, and can cause swelling, tenderness, pain and irritation. Men who have symptoms of inflammation, pain or infection of the prostate should see our Houston urologists for diagnosis and treatment.

Prostate inflammation is the most common urinary tract problem for men ages 50 and younger, and the third most common in men who are older than 50. This condition isn’t cancerous and doesn’t increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. There are four types: acute and chronic bacterial infections, asymptomatic inflammation, and chronic nonbacterial. Acute bacterial infections require immediate treatment. The symptoms appear suddenly and unexpectedly, and patients often have a fever and chills.

Risk factors for developing an inflamed or infected prostate

Certain things increase men’s risk of developing the problem.

• Recent bladder infections or frequent urinary tract infections
• Catheters
• Urinary tract abnormalities
• Being older than age 50
• History of prostatitis
• Enlarged prostate gland
• Trauma to the area located between the anus and scrotum

Symptoms

Here are the common symptoms and signs of an inflamed or infected prostate.

• Frequent urination
• Pain, stinging or burning during urination
• Producing less urine
• Feeling pressure or pain in the rectum
• Lower back or pelvic pain
• Throbbing feelings in the genital or rectal region
• Loss of libido or erectile dysfunction
• Symptoms accompanied by fever and chills

Diagnosis

After our Houston urologists perform an examination, more tests may be necessary, including a urinalysis, blood work and a semen culture. Additional diagnostic tests provide more information to help our physicians make an accurate diagnosis.

• A cystoscopy to get a view of the bladder and urinary tract
• Imaging studies, such as a transrectal ultrasound or CT scan

Sometimes our physicians perform a prostate massage to drain the fluid from the prostate into the urethra. After that, our team examines the fluid for infection or inflammation.

Managing and treating symptoms

Every man’s treatment plan is different, depending on his age, the type of inflammation or infection he has, and other factors. Treatment for chronic prostatitis includes medication and prostate massage. If a man has a chronic bacterial condition, he receives antibiotics for four to 12 weeks. Acute bacterial cases require a two- to four-week course of antibiotics and over-the-counter or prescription pain medication. Patients with severe symptoms may need to be hospitalized.

In addition to medications and other treatments, our urologists may suggest that patients do the following at home.

• Drink extra fluids, preferably water
• Take ibuprofen or other over-the-counter medicine to relieve inflammation and pain
• Apply heating pads or take hot baths for back pain relief
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as well as acidic foods, carbonated drinks and spicy food

Our Houston urologists expertly diagnose and treat prostatitis

Prostatitis can be uncomfortable and painful, but our highly skilled and trained physicians help patients deal with an inflamed or infected prostate. Contact us for an appointment.