Prostatitis can poison the lives of cyclists

Having already had to withdraw from Tirreno-Adriatico due to a prostatitis infection, Vicente Reynes is looking to recover as quickly as possible so that he can soon be back in the peloton.

According to the medical staff at IAM Cycling, prostatitis is a condition that can have a hugely negative impact on the life of a cyclist.

“Technically, prostatitis is the result of the inflammation of the prostate, and then it can also be complicated by infection.  The affected gland is located below the bladder, and as a result in the case of professional cyclists, is in nearly constant contact with the saddle. 

In spite of numerous studies, we are not very familiar with the causes of this inflammation, particularly since there are different types of prostatitis, which include infectious and acute prostatitis.  The bacteria move back along the urethra and end up contaminating the gland.  The rider becomes aware of the condition because it typically causes severe pain, fever and a burning sensation when urinating.  Chronic prostatitis is difficult to diagnose as well as to treat.

For cyclists, the material aspects of their jobs forms a primary risk factor.  The saddle, chamois, and bibs are all important components in the occurrence of prostatitis.  Treatment requires a complete break from riding the bike, and the athlete must be placed on antibiotics for several weeks in case of infection. 

A side note is that there is such a thing as asymptomatic prostatitis, which is when the rider has the condition but feels no pain.  And in instances when the riders do not suffer from pain, it is impossible to detect exactly the number of asymptomatic prostatitis cases that may actually exist.  Only a transrectal ultrasound can confirm the condition in these cases.”