What is Epididymitis?

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle that carries sperm. The swelling can lead to severe discomfort in the testicle, and it can occur at any age. The leading cause of bacterial infections is E. coli, or sexually transmitted diseases (STD), such as  Gonorrhea, Mycoplasma Genitalium or Chlamydia.

If you are experiencing pain and are unsure whether your condition is mild or severe, you can reach out to medical professionals or reach out to us:

Email info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com or any of the following platforms for more information.

+66 65 237 1936   @PULSEClinic   PulseClinic

What are the Causes of Epididymitis?

Gonorrhea and Chlamydia are the most common STDs that cause epididymitis, which can cause an infection in the urethra. Occasionally, the material will travel down to the vas deferens, epididymis, or testes, aggravating inflammation in those areas.

Other causes, like nonsexually transmitted infections, like those originating from urinary tract infections (UTIs) or tuberculosis (TB), can spread from the urethra or other parts of the body to infect or inflame the epididymis. Additionally, a non-STI, such as a UTI or prostate infection (Prostatitis) can also lead to epididymis.

There are some risk factors that you may need to be aware of, so you can see if there is a higher risk for epididymitis if you:

• Are not circumcised
• Engage in unprotected sex or fail to use a barrier method
• Have urinary tract structural abnormalities
• Have tuberculosis
• Have an enlarged prostate obstructing the bladder
• Underwent recent urinary tract surgery
• Recently suffered a groin injury
• Use a urinary catheter
• Take a heart medication called amiodarone

Epididymitis: Common  Signs & Symptoms

It may start with a few mild symptoms, but without treatment or professional help, the symptoms can get worse. The common signs & symptoms are:

• Mild fever
• Shivering
• Pelvic discomfort
• Testicular pressure
• Testicular pain and sensitivity
• Scrotal redness and warmth
• Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
• Discomfort during sex and ejaculation
• Discomfort during urination or bowel movements
• Frequent and urgent urination
• Unusual penile discharge
• Blood in semen

Epididymitis Diagnosis

Firstly, your doctor will undertake a complete physical examination and look for swelling of the testicles and the lymph nodes in the groin area, as well as unusual discharge from the penis. Your doctor will use a cotton swab to gather a specimen for STI testing.

Your doctor might also conduct the following tests and procedures:

• Rectal examination – which shows if an enlarged prostate caused your condition
• Blood tests – a complete blood count (CBC), to see whether there is an infectious agent present in your system
• Urine sample – to determine whether you have a urinary tract infection or an STI

Your doctor might conduct imaging tests to exclude other potential conditions. The test will generate detailed images, showing clearer structures in the body. Your doctor may also request a testicular ultrasound to get images of the testicles and the surrounding tissues within the scrotum.

Did You Know 'PULSE PCR 28: One Test for 28 Infections?

Our Multiplex PCR 28 Test detects 28 types of pathogens responsible for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), making it the most comprehensive STI test available worldwide. 

Samples can be collected via urine, semen, or swabs (Anal, Oral, Vaginal, Penis, and Skin lesions), depending on sexual activity. Patients can receive their test results as fast as a day.

This comprehensive test significantly reduces the risk of transmitting STDs to partners. Suitable for all genders, it caters to patients, whether they display symptoms or are asymptomatic.

Epididymitis Treatment

The most common medication is antibiotics. It usually lasts about one to two weeks. People with epididymitis can also relieve their symptoms by:

• Resting
• Raising the scrotum
• Using ice packs in the affected area
• Increasing fluid intake
• Taking medication for the pain

When should you see a doctor?

If you are experiencing ongoing pain, discomfort, severe scrotal pain, or a high fever, seek professional help immediately. Especially if the symptoms persist beyond 2-4 days. Our healthcare provider can check for other conditions or prescribe medications while the infection is still new.

How to Prevent Epididymitis

Even though it isn’t 100% epididymitis-proof, you can still reduce your risk for infection with the following steps:

• Using a condom to prevent STIs
• Reducing the number of sexual partners
• Undergoing adult male circumcision
• Frequently sanitizing and cleaning communal toilet seats after usage
• Getting vaccinated against TB

However, obtaining timely treatment for acute or mild epididymitis can prevent a chronic infection.

PULSE Clinic Branches

Thailand

PULSE Clinic Silom Bangkok info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com Tel: +66 65237 1936 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

PULSE Clinic Nana Bangkok info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com Tel: +66 95915 6385 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

PULSE Clinic Patong Beach, Phuketinfo.phuket@pulse-clinic.com Tel: +66 95261 5282 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

PULSE Clinic Sukhumvit 37,info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com Tel: +66 92497 9353 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

PULSE Clinic Airport Link Phayathai, Bangkok info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com  Tel : +66842426292

PULSE Clinic Asoke – Executive Health center Asoke, Bangkok info@eu-health.org   Tel :+6664 742 6528 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

PULSE Clinic South Pattaya info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com  Tel :+66 62 828 7969 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

PULSE Clinic North Pattaya info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com Tel :+66 62 828 7969 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

PULSE Clinic Nimman Chiang Mai info.cnx@pulse-clinic.com Tel: +66 99479 7168 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

Malaysia

PULSE Clinic Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur info.kl@pulse-clinic.com  Tel: +60321102122, Whatsapp +601165388678

PULSE Clinic Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur info.kl@pulse-clinic.com  Tel: +60321102122, Whatsapp +601165388678

 Hong Kong

PULSE Clinic Central, Hong Kong info.hk@pulse-clinic.com  Tel: +852 2389 8250

 Singapore
PULSE Clinic Tanjong Pagar, Singapore info.sg@pulse-clinic.com  Tel: +65 6974 59190 or WhatsApp 

 Philippines 

PULSE Clinic Manila, Philippines info.ph@pulse-clinic.com  Tel: +63 91712454970 or WhatsApp or LINE official account 

We’re here to help

With whatever you’re experiencing, you are not alone. PULSE Social Enterprise is here for any concerns and questions that you might have about your health.

From general wellness to mental well-being to sexual health, we will be sure to give you fast, reliable, and safe diagnosis, treatment, and consultation.

If you are experiencing pain and are unsure whether your condition is mild or severe, you can reach out to medical professionals or reach out to us:

Email info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com or any of the following platforms for more information.

+66 65 237 1936   @PULSEClinic   PulseClinic