Prostatitis: Common Complications, Symptoms & Frequent Questions

Dr.Vikas Agarwal, 4 mins read

Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate, a small rubbery, walnut-sized gland located between the bladder and penis. The gland is important for reproduction as it produces a seminal fluid that transports sperm. 

The problem is commonly caused by bacteria. One of the most common bacteria, which usually affects people over 35 years of age, is Escherichia coli (E. coli). Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can also lead to this condition. In some cases, prostate injury or a weak immune condition is believed to be the main accused.  

The infection causes painful and difficult urination as well as pain in the genitals, pelvic area or groin. The problem begins in the prostate gland and over time spreads to the area around the prostate.  

Types of Prostatitis

• Acute bacterial prostatitis: A rare type of prostatitis, but produce sudden and severe symptoms, like fever, bloody semen, chills, etc.
• Chronic bacterial prostatitis: Produces symptoms like acute bacterial prostatitis but is less severe and long duration.
• Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: A common form of prostatitis that can last for months. It often causes pelvic pain and urinary tract symptoms without evidence of infection.
• Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis: A condition in which the prostate gets inflamed but doesn’t produce noticeable symptoms.

Symptoms

The symptoms can vary depending on the type of prostatitis: 

• Cloudy urine
• Foul smell from urine
• Painful ejaculation
• Blood in the urine
• Frequent urination
• Pain or burning sensation while urinating
• Dribbling or hesitant urination
• Pain in the lower back, scrotum, rectum, penis, abdomen or groin
• Fever, muscles, chills and other flu-like symptoms (usually occur in case of acute bacterial prostatitis)

Common Complications

• Sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction
• Bacterial infection in the bloodstream
• Inflammation in the reproductive organs located near the prostate
• A pus-filled cavity in the prostate called a prostatic abscess

In cases of chronic prostatitis, some people complain of anxiety or depression and changes in semen. Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis can decrease the sperm count of the patient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can prostatitis be cured?

The treatment depends on the patient’s age, overall health, medical history and type of prostatitis.

Acute bacterial prostatitis

Doctors usually prescribe painkillers and a 2 to 4-week course of antibiotics. In severe cases, the doctor may advise hospitalisation.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis

Treatment usually involves a 4 to 12-week course of antibiotics. The doctor may also prescribe low-dose of antibiotics for up to 6 months if the problem recurs. Also, experts recommend taking ample amounts of water and avoiding intake of substances that irritate the bladder. If the problem has reached an advanced stage where you experience difficulty emptying your bladder, you may need to undergo surgery.

Chronic prostatitis 

Treatment is based on the symptoms. Medicines are usually prescribed to relax the muscles around the prostate, ease the pain and reduce inflammation. The doctor may advise prostate massage to release fluid that causes pressure in the prostate.

Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis

If you’re diagnosed with asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis, consult your doctor for its management.

How do you know if you have prostatitis?

• Digital rectal exam: In this, the healthcare provider inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the patient’s rectum to check for swelling. During this exam, the doctor may gently massage the prostate to collect the sample of seminal fluid.
• Urine test: A sample of urine is collected to detect the presence and type of bacterial infection.
• Blood test: This is done to check for signs of infection and other prostate problems.

If these tests don’t show the sign of infection, the doctor may suggest for:

• Urodynamic tests: These tests are done to check the performance of the bladder and urethra in holding and releasing urine.
• Imaging tests: These tests help to detect irregularities, abnormal growths or other problems in or around the prostate.

Can stress cause prostatitis?

Yes. Psychological stress is a risk factor for chronic prostatitis.

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