The prostate is a small organ located just below the bladder in men. The urethra is a canal that passes through the prostate to empty the urine from the bladder. The prostate plays an important role in producing semen fluid to help transport the sperm from the male to the female organs.

Acute prostatitis is a serious infection that affects the prostate. The cause of the infection is bacteria called E. coli, normally, is present in the gut but can spread to the prostate after urinary tract infections or recent placement of urine catheter.
The symptoms are fever and chills with pain or sensation of heaviness in the pelvic area. Also, severe pain on urination with the urge to go to the bathroom very frequently which can cause agony and very disturbing. The urine flow is very weak. Some patients may also have trouble starting urination.
The diagnosis is by doing a rectal exam to assess the size and the tenderness of the prostate. Also, by doing urine and blood tests.

The treatment is usually by taking a long course of antibiotics of at least 2 weeks. Also, Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. In severe cases we might need to use intravenous antibiotics.

Video shot by Galia Helbaoui and edited by Amer Helbaoui