Index
What Is Prostatitis?
Prostatitis is inflammation or infection of the prostate gland, a small gland that produces seminal fluid. It can cause urinary, sexual, and pelvic symptoms and may be acute or chronic.
Prostatitis is relatively common and can affect men of all ages, though chronic forms are more frequent in men over 50.
What Causes Prostatitis?
Prostatitis may be caused by:
- Bacterial infection (acute or chronic)
- Non-bacterial inflammation (chronic pelvic pain syndrome)
- Urinary tract infections spreading to the prostate
- Nerve or muscle irritation in the pelvic area
Risk factors include recent urinary tract infections, catheter use, or prostate procedures.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Prostatitis?
You may notice:
- Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, pelvic area, or lower back
- Painful or frequent urination
- Urgency to urinate
- Painful ejaculation or sexual dysfunction
- Flu-like symptoms in acute bacterial cases (fever, chills, fatigue)
- Difficulty urinating or weak urine flow
How Is Prostatitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves:
- Symptom review and physical examination
- Digital rectal exam to assess the prostate
- Urine or blood tests to detect infection
- Online GP consultations can provide advice and initiate investigation; in-person assessment is often required for accurate diagnosis
How Long Does Prostatitis Last?
- Acute bacterial prostatitis often improves within 1–2 weeks with antibiotics
- Chronic prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome may persist for months
- Symptoms may fluctuate over time
Is Prostatitis Contagious?
No. Prostatitis is not contagious.
How to Feel Better and Recover Quickly
Self-Care at Home:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods that may irritate the bladder
- Warm baths or sitz baths to reduce pelvic discomfort
- Avoid prolonged sitting or cycling during flare-ups
Treatment from a GP:
- Antibiotics for bacterial prostatitis
- Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications
- Alpha-blockers to improve urine flow
- Referral to urology for chronic or complicated cases
When Referral Is Needed:
- Persistent symptoms despite treatment
- Recurrent or chronic prostatitis
- Suspected prostate abscess or obstruction
- Difficulty urinating or systemic infection
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Seek urgent care if:
- High fever, chills, or severe pain
- Inability to urinate
- Blood in urine
- Signs of sepsis or sudden worsening of symptoms
How Dr.Online UK Can Help
We offer:
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Assessment, advice, and prescription for prostatitis
- Guidance on lifestyle measures and symptom relief
- Referral to urology if needed
