Table of Contents
Symptoms
Epididymitis can be either acute, meaning it lasts for six weeks or less, or chronic, which lasts for six weeks or more. Symptoms for acute epididymitis often come on quickly and may be associated with sudden inflammation, swelling and pain. Acute epididymitis may also include inflammation of the testes (orchitis or epididymo-orchitis). Chronic epididymitis develops more slowly and is typically accompanied by a dull, achy pain.
Symptoms to watch out for include low-grade fever, enlarged lymph nodes in the groin, urgent or frequent urination, abnormal discharge from the penis, or blood in the semen.
Epididymitis is also typically accompanied by pain and/or pressure in the pelvic area and testicles during sexual intercourse, urination or bowel movements. Also watch out for redness, tenderness or warmth in the scrotum.
Causes
Epididymitis can happen to individuals of all ages but is more common in males aged 14 to 35. It is typically caused by a bacterial infection or a sexually transmitted infection. Gonorrhea and chlamydia are the most common causes of sexually transmitted epididymitis as they cause an infection in the urethra which can sometimes travel down the vas deferens to the epididymis or testes and cause infection. Urinary tract or prostate infections, tuberculosis, and other non-sexually transmitted diseases can similarly travel from the urethra to the epididymis causing epididymitis.
Treatments
Treatment for epididymitis is dependent on the underlying infection. Treatment for a bacterial infection often includes medication such as antibiotics, pain medication, and anti-inflammatory medication. Doctors will often suggest bed rest, cold packs, and avoiding heavy lifting or straining. It can often take a week to several weeks-long course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics.
Occasionally, complications with more severe epididymitis arise which can include puss-filled infections or abscesses in the scrotum. If the condition spreads from the epididymis to the testes, the condition is called epididymo-orchitis. Occasionally, severe epididymitis may be associated with reduced fertility. If no other treatments prove successful, surgery may become an option. In these circumstances, all or part of the epididymis and, in rare cases, the testicle may be removed and any physical defects that may be causing the infection will be corrected.
What is epididymitis?
Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, the tube that carries sperm from the testicles. It can cause pain and swelling in the affected area.
What causes epididymitis?
Epididymitis can be caused by infections (including sexually transmitted infections), urinary tract infections, or trauma. Non-infectious causes may include prolonged sitting or heavy lifting.
Can you get epididymitis without having an STD?
Yes, epididymitis can occur without an STD, often due to bacterial infections or non-infectious causes.
How long does epididymitis last?
The duration can vary; acute epididymitis may last a few days to weeks, while chronic cases can persist for months or longer if untreated.
Does epididymitis go away on its own?
In some cases, mild cases may resolve without treatment, but medical intervention is often necessary to prevent complications.
How is epididymitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly urine tests or imaging studies.
What is the best antibiotic to treat epididymitis?
The choice of antibiotic depends on the underlying cause. Common options include doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, or a combination of antibiotics for sexually transmitted infections.
Can epididymitis cause infertility?
Chronic or severe cases of epididymitis may lead to fertility issues if left untreated, as it can affect sperm transport.
How do you treat epididymitis?
Treatment usually involves antibiotics, pain relief medications, and supportive care like rest, ice application, and elevating the scrotum.
Can epididymitis cause erectile dysfunction?
Epididymitis can contribute to erectile dysfunction due to pain and discomfort, but it is not a direct cause.
Can epididymitis spread to a woman?
Epididymitis itself is not contagious, but the underlying infections may be sexually transmitted.
How long does it take for epididymitis to heal?
With appropriate treatment, most cases improve within a few days to weeks, but complete resolution may take longer, especially for chronic cases.
What are the symptoms of epididymitis?
Symptoms may include swelling and pain in the scrotum, tenderness in the affected testicle, fever, and painful urination.
Is epididymitis painful?
Yes, epididymitis often causes significant discomfort and pain in the affected area.
Can you have intercourse with epididymitis?
It is generally advisable to avoid sexual activity until symptoms improve and a healthcare provider gives clearance.
What is an epididymal cyst?
An epididymal cyst is a fluid-filled sac located in the epididymis. These cysts are typically benign and may not cause symptoms.
How to treat an epididymal cyst?
Most epididymal cysts do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort. If treatment is needed, options may include surgical removal.
Can caffeine cause epididymitis?
Caffeine is not a direct cause of epididymitis, but it may exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.
Can a vasectomy cause epididymitis?
In some cases, a vasectomy may lead to epididymitis due to changes in the flow of sperm, although this is not very common.
