WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Prostatitis (PRAH-stuh-TIE-tus) is an inflammation and
swelling of the prostate (PRAH-state), the donut-shaped gland
that sits at the base of the bladder and surrounds the urinary
canal (urethra). Prostatitis occurs most often in older men
whose prostates have grown larger than
normal.
Causes
The problem is sometimes the
result of infection by bacteria, which can travel up the
urethra or reach the prostate through the blood. In some cases,
no specific cause can be found.
Signs/Symptoms
Typical symptoms include the urge
to urinate right away and a burning sensation during urination.
Other signs are frequent urination (of only small amounts) and
difficulty starting urination, with failure to completely empty
the bladder. You may also have a fever and chills, or
notice blood in your urine or semen. You may experience pain
between the scrotum and the anus, in your lower back, or in
your muscles and joints. Bowel movements may also be
painful.
Care
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to fight infection.
Medications may also be needed to make your stools soft, or
lower fever.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
If you are taking antibiotics to fight infection,
finish the entire prescription, even if you feel better.
Some bacteria may survive and re-infect you if you stop the
drug too soon.
-
You may take acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen for
pain.
-
Rest in bed until fever and pain go away. When you
feel better, you may resume regular
activities.
-
Drink 8 to 10 soda-can sized glasses of water a day
to encourage urination. Be sure not to let your bladder
become too full.
-
Do not drink any alcohol or eat spicy foods until the
infection is cured; they irritate the urinary
tract.
-
There is no need to give up sex. In fact, being
sexually active may lower your risk of developing the
infection again.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
You find blood in your urine.
-
You cannot urinate.
-
There is no improvement after a few
days.
-
You have any problems (redness, swelling, trouble
breathing, or a bad upset stomach) that you think may be
caused by the medicine you are taking.
-
Your symptoms come back after
treatment.
Seek Care Immediately If...
-
You get a high temperature or shaking
chills.
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