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Epididymitis is a condition in which the epididymis, a coiled tube that stores and transports sperm, becomes inflamed. While it can affect males of all ages, it is most commonly seen in men between 19 and 35 years old. The condition can manifest as either acute, with a sudden onset of intense pain and swelling, or chronic, with gradual development and longer-lasting symptoms.
The primary cause of epididymitis is often bacterial infections, including STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea. In non-sexually active men, it may be due to urinary tract or prostate infections. Viral infections, chemical irritants, and tuberculosis can also rarely cause epididymitis.
If left untreated, complications such as abscesses, decreased fertility, and persistent pain may arise. To prevent this, it is important to practice safe sex, promptly address infections, and avoid strenuous activities that can worsen symptoms. Maintaining good hygiene and regular medical check-ups are crucial for overall reproductive health.
The male reproductive glands, known as the testes, produce sperm, which is then transported through the epididymis to the vas deferens, a tube located at the back of the bladder. The epididymis, which wraps around the back of an individual's testicle, can be nearly 20 feet long. Sperm can travel about two weeks from one end of the epididymis to the other. During that period, the sperm cells develop to the point where they can fertilise an egg inside a woman's uterus.
Bacterial infection is the primary cause of epididymitis in most cases. Among the causes are:
Infections of the urinary tract (UTIs)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), like gonorrhoea or chlamydia,
Recent surgery on the genito-urinary system, such as prostatectomy, a procedure to remove all or a portion of the prostate gland
Use of a urinary catheter
A certain inherent problem with the bladder and kidneys
Traumatic groyne injury
Initially, epididymitis may only cause a few minor symptoms. However, if therapy is not received, the symptoms usually worsen. Individuals who have epididymitis may encounter the following:
Low-grade chills and fever
Pelvic pain
Testicular pressure
Testicular soreness and discomfort
Scrotal redness and warmth
Swollen lymph nodes in the groyne
Pain during ejaculation and sexual activity
Discomfort when urinating or passing stool
Irregular penile discharge
Frequent and intense urination
Blood in the semen
Typically, several examinations are necessary to identify the root cause of the problem. These could include:
A groyne examination
A urine and blood test
A swab of the urethra, the tube that exits the body, to check for infections
A rectal examination to check for issues within the prostate
A careful clinical examination consisting of a medical and sexual history review, as well as disease symptoms can help with the diagnosis. Further testing involves examining the testes and scrotum, urine and blood tests, ultrasound scanning, and STD screening. In certain instances, surgery may be performed to further explore the area and rule out conditions like testicular torsion.
The Prehn's sign is a method for diagnosing the source of testicular discomfort. It involves raising the scrotum and observing any changes in pain. A positive result suggests that lifting the scrotum reduces pain and is linked to epididymitis.
Treatment for epididymitis will depend on the underlying cause.
If the source is bacterial, the physician will probably recommend antibiotics.
If it is a result of an STI, the individual should inform their sexual partners and refrain from sexual activity until treatment is completed.
Additionally, the doctor may recommend painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines to alleviate discomfort and swelling.
Simple measures, such as resting with the scrotum elevated, using an ice pack, and wearing scrotal support can also help reduce discomfort.
Generally, the pain should subside within 1 to 3 days once treatment has begun. However, some symptoms may persist for several months. In severe cases, hospitalisation and surgical procedures may be necessary.
Regular check-ups with the doctor will be required to ensure the infection has been fully treated.
Receiving prompt medical attention and treatment can prevent any potential complications. Your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics before your surgery to decrease the chances of developing epididymitis. Moreover, engaging in safe sexual practices such as using protection and having a limited number of sexual partners can also help prevent epididymitis resulting from sexually transmitted infections.
Among the epididymitis complications are:
A pus-filled infection in the scrotum known as an abscess
A hydrocele is a fluid-filled mass that surrounds the testicle.
If the illness extends from the epididymis to a testicle, it is known as epididymal orchitis.
In rare cases, decreased fertility
Epidydimitis is not a sexually transmitted disease, but it can occur as a consequence of sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia. These infections can transmit from one individual to another and cause epididymitis in males.
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