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The prostate is a small gland that is part of the male reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body. The primary function of the prostate gland is to produce a fluid that nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation. This fluid, which makes up a significant portion of semen, helps protect and nourish sperm. It contains muscles that help propel semen into the urethra during ejaculation.
Prostatic infections, also known as prostatitis, are inflammatory conditions of the prostate gland. There are different types of prostatitis, including:
- Acute Bacterial Prostatitis: This is a sudden and severe infection of the prostate gland caused by bacteria. Symptoms often include fever, chills, pain in the lower abdomen or back, and difficulty urinating. It requires prompt medical treatment with antibiotics.
- Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis: This is a recurring or long-term bacterial infection of the prostate. Symptoms may be less severe than acute bacterial prostatitis and can come and go over time. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for an extended period.
- Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS): This is the most common type of prostatitis. It involves persistent pelvic pain and discomfort without evidence of bacterial infection. The exact cause is often unknown, and treatment may involve pain management, physical therapy, and sometimes medication.
- Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis: This type doesn't cause symptoms but is characterised by inflammation in the prostate, usually detected incidentally during medical examinations.
Prostatitis, regardless of the type, can cause a range of symptoms that vary in severity. The symptoms of prostatitis may include:
- Pain or Discomfort: Individuals with prostatitis often experience pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, which may radiate to the lower back, rectum, groin, or perineum (the area between the scrotum and anus).
- Urinary Symptoms:
- Frequent urination.
- Urgency to urinate.
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination.
- Weak urine stream.
- Pain or burning during urination.
- Blood in the urine.
- Sexual Symptoms: Some people with prostatitis may experience sexual difficulties, including:
- Erectile dysfunction (difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection).
- Pain or discomfort during or after ejaculation.
- Decreased libido (sexual desire).
- Flu-Like Symptoms: Acute bacterial prostatitis may cause symptoms similar to the flu, such as fever, chills, and muscle aches.
- General Discomfort: Patients may report a general feeling of malaise, fatigue, or a sense of fullness or heaviness in the lower abdomen.
- Psychological Effects: Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) can be associated with psychological symptoms like anxiety and depression due to ongoing discomfort and pain.
It's important to note that the specific symptoms and their severity can vary from person to person. Additionally, in some cases, individuals with prostatitis may experience no symptoms, particularly in asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis.
If you suspect you have prostatitis or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult a Urologist in Bangalore for a proper evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage prostatitis effectively and prevent potential complications.
Authored By: Dr. Srinivas A Krishnaswamy
MBBS MS MCh
Consultant-Urologist ,Renal Transplant & Robotic Surgeon
