What Causes a Bladder Infection in a Male With No Prostate?

You are male and have become concerned that you may have a bladder infection. You have had a recent prostate exam, perhaps had your PSA levels tested, and your prostate is not enlarged. You want to know if you have a bladder infection and, if so, what the cause might be, what that signifies and what you should do about it.

Bladder Infection in Men

• Women have the largest statistical incidence of bladder infection. Men are much less likely to get one, but when they do, it's likely to be more serious. An accurate diagnosis by your physician is essential.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of a bladder infection include frequent urination, urgent need to urinate, a burning feeling during urination, low-grade fever and cloudy urine with a strong odor.

Physical Causes

• An enlarged prostate remains a main cause of bladder infection, but if you have ruled that out, other physical causes include kidney stones, a urinary stone and an abnormal narrowing of the urethra from a urethral catheterizing and/or surgery.

Bacterial Causes

• Cystitis and interstitial cystitis (a more chronic form), while more common in women, are more serious in men. Cystitis is a bacterial infection usually caused by E. coli bacteria (though the Proteus, Klebsiella and Enterobacter bacteria can also be factors). STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) can cause bladder infection.

Epididymitis

• Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis (the coiled tube at the back of the testicles that stores and carries sperm). It is usually caused by a bacterial infection or an STD. Urine remains in the bladder, which then causes infection.

Treatment

• Prompt treatment by your physician will keep a bladder infection from becoming long-term and disabling. Untreated bladder infections can contribute to kidney or prostate infections. Treatments can include a range of antibiotics (some taken long-term) and may include hospitalization.