The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system, and it is a walnut-sized gland found in men that is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine and semen exit the body. Its main function is to produce seminal fluid in order to transport sperm through the urethra.
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland. The inflammation can be due to an infection as well as other various causes. There are two main types – Acute bacterial prostatitis and chronic bacterial prostatitis.
Acute bacterial prostatitis is a sudden bacterial infection marked by inflammation of the prostate. This is the least common form of prostatitis, but the symptoms are usually severe. Patients with this condition have an acute urinary tract infection with increased urinary frequency and urgency, a need to urinate a lot at night, and have pain in the pelvis and genital area. They often have fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and burning when urinating.
Chronic bacterial prostatitis is the result of recurrent urinary tract infections that have entered the prostate gland. It is thought to exist for several years in some men before producing symptoms. The symptoms are similar to acute bacterial prostatitis, but are less severe and can fluctuate in intensity.