What You Need to Know About Epididymitis and Orchitis?

Epididymitis and Orchitis are both conditions that involve inflammation in the male reproductive system, specifically affecting the testicles and surrounding structures. If you have symptoms, you can see doctors at PULSE Clinic.

To book an appointment, please email us at info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com or chat with us on your preferred platform.

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What are Epididymitis and Orchitis?

Epididymitis and orchitis are both conditions that affect the male reproductive system, specifically the testicles and adjacent structures. Here is an explanation of each:

What is Epididymitis?

• Epididymitis is the inflammation of the epididymis, a small, coiled tube located at the back of each testicle. The epididymis plays a crucial role in the storage and transport of sperm.
• Orchitis is the swelling of either one or both testicles. Similar to epididymitis, it can stem from bacterial infections, often linked to urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted infections. However, viral infections, notably the mumps virus, are also frequent culprits.
• Symptoms of epididymitis may include pain and swelling in the scrotum, tenderness, redness, and possibly fever. Pain may worsen with movement or sexual activity.
• Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, a medical history review, and possibly urine or blood tests to identify the underlying cause.
• Treatment usually consists of antibiotics to eliminate the infection, pain medication to alleviate discomfort, and rest. In some cases, supportive measures, such as applying ice packs to the affected area, may help alleviate symptoms.

What is Orchitis?

• Orchitis is the inflammation of one or both testicles. However, viral infections are also a common cause, with the mumps virus being a well-known culprit.
• The symptoms of orchitis are similar to those of epididymitis and may include severe pain and swelling in the affected testicle(s), fever, nausea, vomiting, and general malaise.
• Diagnosis involves a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly laboratory tests to identify the underlying cause, such as blood tests or imaging studies.
• Treatment for orchitis also typically involves antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present, pain management, rest, and supportive measures. 

Both epididymitis and orchitis can be uncomfortable and potentially serious if left untreated. Seeking medical attention promptly is important to receive appropriate treatment and prevent complications.

Symptoms of Epididymo-Orchitis

Usually, symptoms appear within a day or two. The scrotum frequently gets swollen, sore, and red, and the affected testicles and epididymis may swell quickly. It is really painful at times. There may occasionally be pain without much redness or swelling, but when it is inspected, it will be quite sensitive.

If the Epididymo-Orchitis is a consequence of another infection, there can be additional symptoms. For instance, a urinary tract infection may cause pain when passing urine, and a sexually transmitted illness may cause a discharge from the penis. A fever and other general signs of illness are possible, as with any infection.

Causes of Epididymo-Orchitis

Epididymo-Orchitis is infrequent in prepubescent boys, and symptoms often do not stem from an infection, although on occasion, they may arise from a urinary tract infection. The primary cause at this developmental stage is believed to be urine backing up into the duct through which sperm travel, known as the ejaculatory duct or vas deferens.

In rare instances, Epididymo-Orchitis in children can result from complications associated with Henoch-Schönlein purpura, a condition characterized by inflammation of blood vessels. For individuals aged 14 and older, the majority of Epididymo-Orchitis cases are attributable to an infection. Various factors can lead to infection, including:

Complications from a urine infection

Bacteria such as E. coli, which are responsible for urinary tract infections, can sometimes travel along the vas deferens, the tube connecting the epididymis to the urethra, leading to Epididymo-Orchitis. This occurrence is possible at any age and constitutes the most prevalent cause of Epididymo-Orchitis in men aged 35 and older.

The higher frequency in this age group is linked to a higher risk of partial obstruction of the urine flow, which can result from conditions like urethral stricture or an enlarged prostate gland. The urethra, the conduit through which urine exits the bladder, is particularly susceptible to narrowing. Partial obstruction of urine flow heightens susceptibility to urinary tract infections.

Sexually transmitted infection (STI)

A sexually transmitted infection is the most common cause of Epididymo-Orchitis in young men (but can occur in any sexually active man too). Most frequently, gonorrheal and chlamydial infections cause it. These diseases usually cause urethritis in males by infecting the urethra. On the other hand, the infection can occasionally go down the vas deferens to the testis and epididymis.

An operation to the prostate gland or urethra

The urethra may become contaminated, perhaps allowing bacteria to spread to the testicles. Before the removal of the prostate gland (prostatectomy), Epididymo-Orchitis was a typical side effect. Modern surgical methods have made this uncommon.

How common is epididymo-orchitis?

Approximately 1 in 1,000 males will develop Epididymo-Orchitis. It is uncommon before puberty and common in men over the age of 60 and those between the ages of 15 and 30. Orchitis affects about 3 out of 10 guys who suffer from mumps after puberty. The urethra is more susceptible to developing Epididymo-Orchitis following the insertion of a catheter or other tools.

Treatment for epididymo-orchitis

Epididymitis and Acute Epididymo-Orchitis in Acute Cases. Mathematics for one to two weeks is usually the first step in treatment. Most cases can be handled as an outpatient with medication. The type of bacteria identified will determine which medication is best for you. The most often prescribed antibiotics are:

• Doxycycline
• Ciprofloxacin
• tetracycline-sulfamethoxazole
• Levofloxacine

You might need to stay in the hospital for treatment if your infection is severe. These are examples of difficult-to-control pain with vomiting, a high fever, and a lack of improvement with oral antibiotics. Sometimes drugs are required in severe instances just for a few days.

Epididymitis caused by tuberculosis is less common but more dangerous. Treatment involves antituberculous medications. If the damage is severe, surgery can be required.

How is epididymitis treated?

Epididymitis treatment involves antibiotics. The most often prescribed drugs are trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and doxycycline. A course of antibiotics typically lasts one to two weeks.

Additionally, those who have epididymitis might lessen their symptoms by:

• resting and taking a nap.
• raising penis.
• putting cold packs on the injured region.
• consuming liquids.
• taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the pain.

Can you get epididymitis without having an STD?

Yes, Infections that are not sexually transmitted can cause epididymitis. For instance, urinary tract infections or prostate problems might extend to the epididymis.

When should you go to see a doctor?

You need to pay attention to any swelling or soreness in the scrotum. There are several potential causes for this. To prevent long-term harm, some of these require immediate medical attention. Seek emergency medical attention if you are experiencing excruciating scrotal pain. See a healthcare professional if you have pain when passing urine or discharge from your penis.

Notes: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained here in is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

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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.

To book an appointment, please email us at info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com or chat with us on your preferred platform.

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