CEN Epididymitis

CEN Epididymitis Overview

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the coiled tube (epididymis) at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. Males of any age can get epididymitis.

Epididymitis is most often caused by a bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Sometimes, a testicle also becomes inflamed — a condition called epididymo-orchitis.

Signs and Symptoms

• A swollen, red or warm scrotum
• Testicle pain and tenderness, usually on one side, that usually comes on gradually
• Painful urination or an urgent or frequent need to urinate
• Discharge from the penis
• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
• Blood in the semen
• Less commonly, fever

Causes

• STIs. Gonorrhea and chlamydia are the most common causes of epididymitis in young, sexually active men.
• Other infections. Bacteria from a urinary tract or prostate infection might spread from the infected site to the epididymis. Also, viral infections, such as the mumps virus, can result in epididymitis.
• Urine in the epididymis (chemical epididymitis). This condition occurs when urine flows backward into the epididymis, possibly because of heavy lifting or straining.
• Trauma. A groin injury can cause epididymitis.
• Tuberculosis. Rarely, epididymitis can be caused by tuberculosis infection.

Risk Factors

Certain sexual behaviors that can lead to STIs put you at risk of sexually transmitted epididymitis, including having:

• Sex with a partner who has an STI
• Sex without a condom
• A history of STIs

Treatment

Antibiotics are needed to treat bacterial epididymitis and epididymo-orchitis. If the cause of the bacterial infection is an STI, your sexual partner also needs treatment. Take the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms clear up sooner, to ensure that the infection is gone.

You should start to feel better within 48 to 72 hours of starting an antibiotic. Resting, supporting the scrotum with an athletic strap, applying ice packs and taking pain medication can help relieve discomfort.