Acute prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland caused by a bacterial infection. The main function of the prostate gland is the production of semen. Approximately the size of a walnut, it surrounds the urethra at the base of the bladder. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), acute prostatitis usually presents with a rapid onset of symptoms, and typically occurs in men aged 40 to 60.
Causes
Acute prostatitis is usually caused by common bacteria that can cause an infection in the bladder, such as Escherichia coli and possibly Chlamydia, notes the AAFP. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, bacteria may enter the bladder during heavy lifting while the bladder is full, jobs such as operating heavy machinery and driving a truck that expose the prostate to intense vibrations, and activities such as riding a bike or jogging. Other possible causes include pelvic muscle spasms and abnormalities in the structure of the urinary tract.
Signs and Symptoms
Acute prostatitis causes symptoms such as chills, high fever, nausea and vomiting, pain in the back, pelvis, genital or rectal areas, flu-like symptoms, feeling an urgent or frequent need to urinate, pain or burning during urination, blood in the urine and painful ejaculation, notes Dr. Weil.
Diagnosis
According to the AAFP, the diagnosis of acute prostatitis is usually made with a urinalysis, a test that checks urine for the presence of blood, bacteria, white blood cells and other substances that indicate infection. A digital rectal exam may also be performed to detect tenderness, warmth and inflammation of the prostate. Obtaining a semen sample through prostate massage should be avoided because it is painful and can spread bacteria to the bloodstream.
Treatment
Acute prostatitis is treated with antibiotic therapy, explains the Mayo Clinic. Treatment usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, and all medication must be taken to ensure the infection is eradicated. A severe infection can require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. According to Merck, other treatments used along with antibiotics may include anti-inflammatory medication and warm baths to relieve pain, and medication to improve emptying of the bladder.
Complications
Acute prostatitis can cause complications, explains the Mayo Clinic. It can become an ongoing infection, called chronic prostatitis. Bacteremia, a life-threatening condition, can result when bacteria from the prostate infects the blood. The coiled tube in the testicles that carries sperm, called the epididymis, can become inflamed. A pus-filled cavity called an abscess can form in the prostate gland, requiring surgical drainage.
