Acute prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland caused by a bacterial infection. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder in men, where it produces seminal fluid. The term “acute” signifies that the condition’s onset is abrupt and the symptoms are severe, distinguishing it from chronic prostatitis.
Identifying the Symptoms of Acute Prostatitis
The signs of acute prostatitis affect the body both systemically and locally. Systemic symptoms often mimic the flu and include a sudden fever, chills, and general body aches. These are the body’s responses to a significant infection, causing a person to feel very unwell in a short period.
Alongside these flu-like feelings, a range of urinary and pelvic symptoms develop. Men may experience pain or a burning sensation during urination, a frequent and urgent need to urinate, and difficulty starting a urine stream, which may be weak or interrupted. Pain is also common and can be located in the pelvic region, genitals, lower back, or the area between the scrotum and rectum. The sudden appearance of these combined symptoms requires prompt medical evaluation.
Underlying Causes and Associated Risk Factors
Acute prostatitis is almost always the result of a bacterial infection. Bacteria most commonly enter the prostate by spreading from a nearby urinary tract infection (UTI) or when infected urine flows backward from the urethra into the gland.
Certain factors increase the risk of developing this condition. A recent UTI or bladder infection elevates the risk. The use of a urinary catheter can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. Other risk factors include bladder blockages, untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and recent medical procedures like a prostate biopsy.
The Process of Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis involves a review of symptoms and targeted tests. A healthcare provider will analyze a urine sample for bacteria and white blood cells. A urine culture is often performed to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection, which helps in selecting the most effective antibiotic. Blood tests may also be ordered to look for systemic signs of infection.
A digital rectal exam (DRE) allows the provider to feel the prostate for swelling and tenderness. In some cases, imaging tests like an ultrasound may be used to rule out other problems, such as a prostatic abscess.
Treatment for acute prostatitis focuses on eliminating the infection with antibiotics. This treatment can last from two to six weeks, depending on the severity. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for intravenous (IV) antibiotics. Other therapies are used to manage discomfort, including pain relievers like NSAIDs and alpha-blockers to relax the bladder and prostate muscles, making urination easier.
Potential Complications and The Recovery Period
If not treated promptly, acute prostatitis can lead to serious health issues. A prostatic abscess, a collection of pus, may form and require surgical drainage. The infection can also spread to the bloodstream, a condition known as bacteremia or sepsis, which is a medical emergency. Another risk is acute urinary retention, the complete inability to urinate.
With proper medical care, the outlook for recovery is positive. It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve after a few days. Stopping treatment early can allow the infection to return or become more difficult to treat. Symptom relief begins within a few days of starting antibiotics, but it can take several weeks for all symptoms to resolve.