WHAT IS EPIDIDMYTIS
Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, a small, coiled tube that sits on the back of the testicle and stores and carries sperm. It can be caused by a bacterial infection, sexually transmitted infection (STI), or other underlying health conditions. Symptoms of epididymitis include pain and swelling in the testicle, pain during urination or ejaculation, and fever. Epididymitis is treated with a combination of antibiotics and pain medication. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as infertility or the development of an abscess.
CAUSES OF EPIDIDMYTIS
Epididymitis is typically caused by a bacterial infection, but it can also be caused by other underlying health conditions. Some common causes of epididymitis include:
- Bacterial infections, such as those caused by Escherichia coli or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland)
- Injuries to the scrotum or testicles
- Structural abnormalities of the urinary tract or reproductive system
- Immune system disorders
Risk factors for epididymitis include having unprotected sex, having a history of UTIs or STIs, and having a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS or other conditions. Epididymitis is more common in men over the age of 35.
TYPES OF EPIDIDMYTIS
There are two main types of epididymitis: acute and chronic.
Acute epididymitis is a sudden, severe inflammation of the epididymis that typically comes on quickly and is caused by a bacterial infection. It is more common in men under the age of 35. Symptoms of acute epididymitis may include fever, chills, pain and swelling in the testicle, pain during urination or ejaculation, and blood in the urine.
Chronic epididymitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the epididymis that develops over time and is typically caused by an underlying health condition, such as an STI or prostate infection. It is more common in men over the age of 35. Symptoms of chronic epididymitis may be milder than those of acute epididymitis, but they may still include pain and swelling in the testicle and discomfort during urination or ejaculation.
Both types of epididymitis can lead to serious complications if left untreated, such as infertility or the development of an abscess. It is important to see a healthcare provider if you have any symptoms of epididymitis so that you can receive proper treatment.
SYMPTOMS OF EPIDIDMYTIS
The most common symptoms of epididymitis are:
- Pain and swelling in the testicle
- Pain during urination or ejaculation
- Fever
- Chills
- Bloody urine
- Discharge from the penis
- Burning sensation during urination
Symptoms of epididymitis may develop quickly or gradually, depending on the underlying cause. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Epididymitis can lead to serious complications if left untreated, such as infertility or the development of an abscess. It is important to receive proper treatment to prevent these complications.