How to Heal at Home From a Prostate Infection

A prostate infection, otherwise known as bacterial or viral prostatitis, involves the prostate gland; this gland is wrapped around the urethra, the tube carrying urine from the bladder out through the penis. When the infected prostate becomes swollen and inflamed, you may urinate more frequently, or you may experience difficulty urinating. You might feel pain when you do urinate and have other symptoms such as low back pain, fever and chills.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with your physician. According to the Prostatitis Foundation, a prostate infection may be caused by a bacteria or a virus, and it can indicate you have a sexually transmitted disease. Your doctor will do an examination, test a sample of your urine and order antibiotics if appropriate.

• 2

  Take all medications as prescribed. Prostate infections can be difficult to eradicate, so it's important to take all doses of your antibiotic. Be sure to follow any instructions from your pharmacist about when to take the pills and whether to take them with food or on an empty stomach.

• 3

  Get plenty of rest. Your doctor may recommend bed rest until your fever and chills subside and you start feeling better.

• 4

  Drink plenty of fluids. When you increase your fluid intake, the antibiotic is more effective. However, alcohol and beverages with caffeine can irritate your prostate and make your symptoms worse.

• 5

  Take stool softeners as needed. Because the prostate gland is located in front of the rectum, any swelling can prevent stool from passing through. If the stool stays in your rectum too long, it becomes hard and causes pain. An over-the-counter or prescription stool softener will help relieve the pressure and promote normal bowel movements.

• 6

  Use pain medications as needed. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can relieve your discomfort. Avoid opioids such as codeine, which can cause constipation.

• 7

  Take a warm bath. Sitting in a warm tub for 20 to 30 minutes several times a day can help relieve the pain from your inflamed prostate.