Bacterial Prostatitis

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It sits just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra (the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body). Prostatitis is an infection or inflammation that causes the prostate to become painful and swollen. This narrows the urethra and can block the bladder neck. Prostatitis can cause urinary symptoms such as a burning sensation, pressure, or pain. Bacterial prostatitis is one form of prostatitis. It is often acute (sudden and severe), and can make you very sick.

With a healthy prostate, urine flows easily through the urethra.

With an inflamed prostate, the urethra narrows. It’s harder for urine to go through.

Causes

Bacterial prostatitis occurs due to a bacterial infection in the prostate. In some cases, bacterial prostatitis is caused by a sexually transmitted infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bacterial prostatitis may be severe and come on quickly. They may include:

• Fever and chills

• Low back pain

• Frequent and painful urination

• A less forceful urine stream

• Straining to urinate or the inability to urinate

Treatment

Antibiotics will be prescribed. Take all of your medication, even if you start to feel better. Your healthcare provider may also suggest bed rest, stool softeners, and drinking more fluid.