EPIDIDYMITIS

The epididymis is a structure which lies on and around each testicle. It functions in the transport, storage and maturation of sperm cells originating from the testicle. When a man complains of scrotal pain, acute or chronic epididymitis is far and away that most common diagnosis. Acute epididymitis is usually more severe involving more significant swelling and pain than chronic epididymitis. Epididymitis which lasts more than six weeks is considered chronic epididymtitis.

Symptoms and Causes

The symptoms of epididymitis include scrotal pain and swelling. The pain or swelling may be mild or severe. At times the epididymus may become so inflamed that a patient is unable to walk (due to pain). Infection may also become so severe that it spreads to the adjacent testicle. Such cases may cause fever and, rarely, abscess formation.

Most cases of epididymitis are not severely disabling; usually the pain and swelling is not severe. It is common for pain to increase as the day progresses. It has long been thought that straining or strainful work was a contributory factor in epididymitis. Recently, however, this has been considered to be less of a factor and infection is now considered the most common cause of epididymitis. The infective agents most likely to cause epididymitis are the bacteria which commonly cause other urinary infections. A much less common cause of epididymitis is the gonorrhea bacteria.

Treatment

The treatment for acute epididymitis is well accepted and effective. It includes antibiotics therapy, bed rest, scrotal support ("supporter"), and oral anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Ibuprofen). Each of these modes of treatment is important. Chronic epididymitis is more of a problem (though less severe) because it's symptoms seem to persist even after the initial treatment. In these cases a second round of therapy may be helpful. Beyond this, longer term anti-inflammatory medication is recommended. Surgical treatment for chronic epididymitis is an uncommon last resort.

Information provided by GU Logic (800) 451-8107.

The information provided in this section should in no way serve as medical advice. Readers are encouraged to confirm the information contained here with other sources and seek medical advice from a physician. Neither the authors nor any other party who has been involved in the preparation or publication of this work warrants that the information contained herein is in every respect accurate or complete and they are not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained for the use of such information.

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