Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube behind the testicle that stores and carries sperm. It is most common in men ages 20-39 and is usually caused by a bacterial infection spreading from the urinary tract or an STD. Symptoms include testicle pain and tenderness, painful urination, and fever. Doctors evaluate with exams, tests, and imaging to diagnose and rule out other conditions, then treat with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. Leaving epididymitis untreated can cause permanent damage.

1. Epididymitis Define, Causes, treatment

2. Defintion Epididymitis is an inflammation of the coiled tube (epididymis) at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm Males of any age can get epididymitis, but it's most common in men between the ages of 20 and 39.

3. Causes caused by a bacterial infection Hx of UTIs or prostate infec. bacteria may spread from the infected site to the epididymis. STD- such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. testicle also may become inflamed — a condition called epididymo-orchitis Chemical epididymitis

4. Causes caused by a bacterial infection Hx of UTIs or prostate infec. bacteria may spread from the infected site to the epididymis. STD- such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. testicle also may become inflamed — a condition called epididymo-orchitis Chemical epididymitis

5. Causes procedures on the urinary tract. surgery or catheter or scope inserted into the penis can introduce bacteria into the genital-urinary tract, leading to infection. Prostate enlargement. obstructs bladder function and causes urine to remain in the bladder risk of bladder infection, which increases the risk of epididymitis

6. Signs and symptoms A tender, swollen, red or warm scrotum Testicle pain and tenderness, usually on one side — the pain may get worse when you have a bowel movement Painful urination or an urgent or frequent need to urinate Painful intercourse or ejaculation Chills and a fever A lump on the testicle Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin (inguinal nodes) Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area Discharge from the penis Blood in the semen

7. See the doctor Never ignore scrotal pain or swelling. Scrotal pain may require immediate treatment- may cause permanent damage if not treated promptly. Testicular torsion, caused by a twisted spermatic cord, can cause pain similar to that caused by epididymitis and requires emergency treatment because it blocks blood flow to the testicle.

8. Evaluation physical exam, which may reveal enlarged lymph nodes in your groin and an enlarged testicle on the affected side. DRE, blood and urine tests STD screening. sample of discharge from your urethra. Ultrasound imaging. used to rule out conditions such as twisting of the spermatic cord (testicular torsion) or a testicular tumor. Nuclear scan of the testicles. used to rule out testicular torsion,

9. Treatment Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory If STD Your sexual partner will also need treatment. take the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, even though you may feel better in two to three days after you start treatment. If a pocket of pus (abscess) has formed, it may need to be drained, epididymis needs to be removed surgically

10. Other suggestions Rest in bed. Elevate your scrotum. While lying down, place a folded towel under your scrotum. athletic supporter. cold packs to your scrotum. Don't have sex until your infection has cleared up.

11. Bottom Line Common meidcal condition in men Us. assoc. with pain and swelling Diagnosis is easily made Successful treatment is available.