Prostatitis: Causes and Symptoms

The prostate gland is the male reproductive organ located just above the bladder. It is about the size of a walnut or small apricot. It’s responsible for secreting a prostate fluid, which is a component of semen. Its muscles work to push seminal fluid through the urethra during ejaculation. It contracts to close the opening between the bladder and urethra so that semen can be released from the body.

It’s an essential function, but a sensitive one. The location of the prostate in the male anatomy can create complications with urination as it is so close to the urethra. If it becomes swollen, it can aggravate the bladder. This common issue is referred to as prostatitis.

Classifications of Prostatitis and Their Causes and Symptoms

While it can affect men of all ages, it’s most common in men who are over 50. Approximately two million visits to health care providers in the United States per year are due to prostatitis.

The causes vary based on the type that is present. The classifications of prostatitis are as follows:

Chronic Prostatitis, or Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome

This type is believed to be about chemicals in the urine and provoked as the body’s response to an existing urinary tract infection or pelvic nerve damage. Men who experience damage to the lower urinary tract during bodily trauma, whether inflicted by surgery or injury, are at risk of developing chronic prostatitis. Also, psychological stress can contribute.

Symptoms:

• Pain in the scrotum, anus, central lower abdomen, penis, scrotum, or lower back that persists for three months or longer
• Pain during or following ejaculation. Pain may spread from one area to others, appear and disappear over time
• Pain in the urethra or penis during or following urination
• Frequent urination (eight + times a day)
• Weak urination stream

Acute Bacterial Prostatitis

A bacterial infection causes this type of prostatitis. It can occur suddenly and disappear just as such, or potentially last longer. Men with these symptoms should seek medical care immediately.

Symptoms:

• Frequent urination
• Painful or burning sensation while urinating
• Genital, groin, lower abdomen, or back pain
• Frequent urination while sleeping
• Body aches
• UTI
• Inability to empty bladder
• Weak urination stream
• Inability to urinate

Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis

Bacterial prostatitis can form in men who have lower UTI’s that are difficult to treat. It can develop gradually and last three months or longer. Symptoms may be persistent or become mild for the duration of the condition. It can occur after a previous contraction of a UTI and attempt to treat acute bacterial prostatitis.

Symptoms:

• Painful ejaculation
• Frequent urination
• Weak urination stream
• UTI
• Urinary blockage
• Genital, groin, lower abdomen, or back pain

Watch Out

Prostatitis is diagnosed by a personal or family history, physical exam, or other tests usually completed by a urologist. Having any prostatitis puts men at risk for bacterial infection in the bloodstream, developing a prostatic abscess, experiencing sexual dysfunction, and inflammation of other related organs.

If any of these symptoms sound too familiar, seek medical attention immediately. Always remember to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and be open about your worries.