Epididymitis
Epididymitis is inflammation at the back of the testicle coiled tube (epididymis). Men of any age may develop epididymitis. The most frequent cause of epididymitis is a bacterial infection, which includes STIs like gonorrhoea and chlamydia. A testicle can occasionally become inflamed. This ailment is known as epididymo-orchitis.
Symptoms of Epididymitis
Epididymitis symptoms and signs include:
- A bulging, heated, or red scrotum
- Testicular soreness and tenderness that often affects one side and develops over time
- Urination that hurts or that is required urgently or frequently
- Discharge from the penis
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain or discomfort
- A blemish on the sperm
- Fever (less common)
When to see a doctor?
Scrotal soreness or swelling should never be ignored as there are many potential causes. Some of them need prompt care to prevent any permanent harm. Seek immediate medical care if you are experiencing severe scrotal pain, pain while urinating or discharge from your penis.
Get the best treatment for Epididymitis from the best Urologist, at Medicover Hospitals.
Causes
There are several causes of epididymitis such as
STIs
The most frequent causes of epididymitis in young, sexually active males are gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
STDs (sexually transmitted diseases)
It can also cause Epididymitis.
Some other infections
Epididymis may become infected with bacteria from a prostate or urinary tract infection. Additionally, viral diseases like the mumps virus can cause epididymitis.
Chemical epididymitis (Urine in the epididymis)
This syndrome occurs when urine backs up into the epididymis, possibly as a result of straining or heavy lifting.
Trauma
An epididymis injury to the groin can also cause this condition.
Complications
Epididymitis complications include:
Abscess or infection in the scrotum, that is filled with pus
Sporadically decreased fertility
If the condition spreads from your epididymis to your testicles, it is known as epididymo-orchitis
Prevention
Practice safer intercourse to help prevent STIs that can lead to epididymitis.
If you have recurrent urinary tract infections or other risk factors for epididymitis, your doctor may go over additional methods of preventing a recurrence with you.
Diagnosis
For the diagnosis of Epididymitis, your doctor will look for larger testicles on the affected side and groin lymph nodes. In order to look for prostate enlargement or pain, your doctor may also perform a rectal exam.
Your doctor may advise the following tests:
STI examination
To collect a sample of the discharge coming from your urethra, a tiny swab is put into the tip of your penis. It is tested for chlamydia and gonorrhoea in the laboratory.
Blood and urine tests
Your blood and urine samples are examined for anomalies.
Your doctor may advise you an ultrasound to rule out testicular torsion. If the blood flow to your testicles is higher or lower than normal, it would indicate torsion. Ultrasound with color doppler can assist diagnose this.
Treatment
Both bacterial epididymitis and epididymo-orchitis require the use of antibiotics. In case it is concluded that an STI is the source of the bacterial illness, your partner will also need therapy. Even if your symptoms disappear sooner, you must complete the course of antibiotics ordered by your doctor.
After taking an antibiotic for 48 to 72 hours, you should start to feel better. Pain can be eased by resting, using an athletic supporter to support the scrotum, applying ice packs, or taking painkillers.
Your doctor will probably advise a follow-up appointment to ensure the infection has disappeared.
Surgery
If an abscess has developed, surgery to drain it may be necessary. If the epididymitis is brought on by underlying physical problems, surgical removal of the entire or partial epididymis may be required (epididymectomy)
Lifestyle and self-care
Painful epididymitis is a common occurrence. To make yourself feel better, try:
- Taking proper rest and sleeping for at least 7 to 8 hours.
- Lying down with your scrotum raised.
- Applying cold packs to your scrotum.
- Donning a sports supporter.
- Avoiding lifting anything heavy.
- Refraining from sexual activity till you get approval from your doctor.
Dos and Don’ts
A person with Epididymitis has to follow the below-mentioned do’s and don’ts to manage Epididymitis related symptoms and infections.
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Perform some physical activity, yoga or exercises | Forget to take medications |
| Eat foods that contain high fibre, vitamin c, minerals, fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and nuts | Eat oily or deep-fried foods |
| Sleep properly and take rest | Smoke and drink alcohol |
| Apply cold sacks to your scrotum | Lift heavy objects |
| Eat more sources of omega–3 fats like fatty fish, salmon, canola oil, fish oil, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and walnuts | Engage in intercourse until the pain subsides |
Epididymitis can lead to many urological disorders. Follow the above tips to prevent complications.
Care at Medicover Hospitals
At Medicover Hospitals, we have the most trusted team of doctors and medical experts who are experienced in providing empathetic healthcare services to our patients. Our diagnostic department is equipped with modern technology and equipment to conduct the tests required for the diagnosis of Epididymitis. We have an excellent team of Urologists who diagnose and treat this condition with utmost precision that bring successful treatment outcomes.
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