What is Prostatitis?

Prostatitis is a condition described as an inflammation and infection of the prostate glands. Around 5 percent to 10 percent of prostatitis cases are caused by bacteria. However, this condition is not a risk factor for developing prostate cancer.

A man’s disease, prostatitis affects virtually all ages. The US National Institutes of Health announced that prostatitis accounts for about 25 percent of all visits to the doctor, which relates to complaints that involve the urinary systems and genitals. In fact, this disorder is the most common reason why men under 50 years of age consult a urologist.

Typical symptoms of prostatitis include difficulty in urinating, premature ejaculation, low sexual desire and psychological problems. In addition, fever and chills may accompany acute prostatitis. If pain in the lower back or in the perineum occurs, seek timely medical help.

There are three types of prostatitis: (1) acute bacterial, (2) chronic bacterial and (3) the most common type, chronic nonbacterial (also known as chronic pelvic pain syndrome).

Prostatitis was earlier believed to be a sexually transmitted disease. But more studies later on revealed that only a small number of prostatitis cases are transmitted through sexual activity.

The risk of getting prostatitis increases if one has had a urinary catheter or any similar instrument inserted. Engaging in rectal intercourse increases the risk of developing this disorder. In addition, conditions such as having an abnormal urinary tract, an enlarged prostate or a bladder infection may contribute to the development of prostatitis. Other causes may involve autoimmune diseases.