10 Prostatitis Symptoms You Should Know About

Prostatitis symptoms result from the inflammation and swelling of the prostate gland. The gland is positioned below the bladder and produces semen to assist the male reproductive system.

Prostatitis can be caused by a bacterial infection, the Mayo Clinic reported. Sometimes the cause can’t be identified. The disorder can occur at any age, but commonly develops in men age 50 and younger.

Bacteria may get into the prostate from the urethra through infected urine or stool in the rectum, according to WebMD. Other causes may include medical procedures such as an inserted urinary catheter, a recent bladder infection, an abnormal urinary tract, an enlarged prostate, rectal intercourse, or an autoimmune disease.

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Here are 10 prostatitis symptoms, according to WebMD and MedlinePlus, an information site for the National Institutes of Health:

1. Frequent urges to urinate
2. Difficulty urinating
3. Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
4. Weakened urine flow
5. Foul-smelling urine
6. Blood in the urine
7. Chills and fever
8. Pain in the lower abdomen, between the genitals and anus, in the groin or in the lower back
9. Pain during ejaculation or blood in the semen
10. Pain during bowel movements

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Acute bacterial prostatitis may result from a urinary tract infection. Prostatitis symptoms may occur through certain sexual practices or having many sexual partners, MedlinePlus noted. Chronic nonbacterial prostatitis is caused by frequent irritation of the prostate.

A physical exam by a doctor can determine if prostatitis is causing the symptoms. Antibiotics are used for two to six weeks for acute and chronic prostatitis, MedlinePlus explained. Recurring bouts of prostatitis make it necessary to take medication for as long as 12 weeks.

Patients with prostatitis symptoms are advised to drink plenty of fluids to urinate often and completely. To reduce prostatitis symptoms, they can take warm baths and avoid foods and drinks that aggravate the bladder, including caffeine, alcohol, citrus juices and spicy foods. Stool softeners are recommended when bowel movements are painful.

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