What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Inflammation?

What Are the Symptoms of Prostate Inflammation?
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Inflammation or irritation of the prostate gland is a medical condition commonly referred to as prostatitis. Prostate inflammation is most frequently the result of a bacterial infection of the prostate, according to PDRhealth; however, men can also develop symptoms of prostate inflammation due to prostate injury, emotional stress, or an alternate medical condition affecting the immune or nervous systems. Men who develop symptoms of prostate inflammation should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Groin, Genital or Back Pain

The prostate is a small gland located within a man's body immediately beneath his bladder. Inflammation of this small gland can result in sensations of pain that extend into the testicles, penis or lower back, FamilyDoctor.org reports. Certain men can also experience discomfort along the perineum, the small area in between the anus and testicles. The severity of groin, genital or back pain varies depending upon the extent and cause of prostate inflammation. Men who experience any type of persistent or severe pain should seek care from a physician.

Urination Problems

An inflamed prostate gland can press into a man's bladder, leading to urination complications as symptoms of this condition. Affected men can experience frequent, urgent or uncomfortable urination symptoms due to prostate inflammation, MayoClinic.com explains. These urination problems may be most apparent at night and can cause a man to wake several times during the night to go to the bathroom. Certain men also develop a burning or painful sensation upon urination. If an inflamed prostate presses into the urethra, a thin tube that carries urine out of the body, men can have difficulty initiating urination, or may only produce a weak or dribbling stream of urine. Urine problems may also be signs of a urinary tract infection and affected men should consult a doctor to ensure receipt of an accurate diagnosis.

Painful Ejaculation

Men who have an inflamed prostate can experience discomfort or pain upon ejaculation, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. Certain men may also notice small amounts of blood or pus within their semen, especially if prostate inflammation is the result of a bacterial infection. Painful ejaculation can contribute to a temporary decrease in sexual libido and affected men should seek prompt medical care.

Flu-like Symptoms

Men who have a bacterial prostate infection can develop flu-like symptoms. These symptoms can include a high fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, MayoClinic.com reports. A high fever can also contribute to sweating, flushed skin or headache pain.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Mar 30, 2011

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