The prostate gland is located deep inside the body at the base of the bladder. Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland. This can occur with or without infection. Most cases of prostatitis are long term (chronic). Most do not include a bacterial infection.
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Chronic prostatitis is more common in older men. It is often an inflammatory condition and not an infection. But bacterial infection can also cause chronic prostatitis. It can cause pain in the rectum, urethra, bladder, or scrotum. It can also make you unable to fully empty the bladder. You may pee often. Or you may have burning with urination. Prostatitis may also cause painful ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
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Acute prostatitis happens suddenly. This often occurs in men younger than 35. It is from a bacterial infection. You may have severe symptoms, such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and pain in the area between the scrotum and anus (perineum). You may have a hard time peeing. Or you may have pain or a burning feeling when peeing. There may be blood or pus in the urine.
Your healthcare provider may do a culture test on prostate fluids or discharge from the penis. This will help figure out if bacteria are the cause. Treatment can include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medicine, prostate medicines, and stool softeners.
Home care
These guidelines will help you care for yourself at home:
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Rest at home until the fever is gone and you are feeling better.
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A hot sitz bath may offer some relief. Fill a tub with 6 inches of hot water. Allow the water to run so you can keep it hot for 10 to 15 minutes.
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Drink plenty of fluids. Don't drink alcohol or caffeine until all symptoms are gone.
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If your healthcare provider gives you an antibiotic, take it exactly as you are told. Take it until it is all gone.
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Constipation causes straining and pain. Prevent constipation by eating natural laxatives, such as prunes, fresh fruits, and whole-grain cereals. If needed, use a mild over-the-counter (OTC) laxative for constipation. An OTC stool softener may be used to keep the stools soft.
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If sex is uncomfortable or painful, don't have sex until symptoms get better.
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You may use OTC medicines for pain and fever, unless another medicine was given. If you have chronic liver or kidney disease, talk with your provider before using these medicines. Also talk with your provider if you've ever had a stomach ulcer or digestive tract bleeding.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider, a urologist, or as advised to be sure you are responding to treatment. Your provider may want to see you after you finish your antibiotics to be sure the infection has cleared. If a culture was taken, you may call for the results as directed. A culture test can help your provider know if you're on the correct antibiotic.
Call 911
Call 911 if any of these occur:
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Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
When to get medical advice
Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:
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Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider
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Unable to pee for 8 hours
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Pressure or pain in your bladder gets worse
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Painful swelling of the testicle or scrotum
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