Epididymitis (Epididymo-orchitis)

Pain in the testesSudden redness or swelling of the scrotumHardness, a lump, and/or soreness in the affected testicleTenderness in the nonaffected testicleGroin painChillsFeverInflammation of the urethraPain during intercourse or ejaculationPain and/or burning during urinationIncreased pain while having a bowel movementLower abdominal discomfortDischarge from the penisBlood in the semen Diagnosis Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. Tests may include: Urinalysisto check for a high white blood cell (WBC) count and the presence of bacteriaUrine cultureto identify the type of bacteria presentCulture of discharge from penisBlood testto measure the white blood cell count (WBC)Ultrasounda test that uses sound waves to examine the scrotum Treatment Treatment is essential to prevent the infection from worsening. Treatment may include: Bed restStay in bed to keep. This is to keep the testicles from moving and to promote healing. You may need bed rest until the swelling subsides.AntibioticsYou will be given antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection. Take all of your antibiotics, even if you begin to feel better. If you have an STD, your partners will also need treatment.Oral anti-inflammatory medicationThis includes drugs, like ibuprofen, to help reduce swelling.Scrotal elevation and supportYou may need to wear an athletic supporter for several weeks.Hot bathsTaking baths can ease the pain and help relieve swelling.SurgerySurgery may be needed in severe cases that keep coming back.Do not have sex until you and your partner have competed treatment.

Prevention The following steps can help decrease your risk: Practice safe sex. Protect yourself from STDs by using condoms.Empty your bladder as soon as you feel the need. RESOURCES: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseaseshttp://www.niddk.nih.gov/ National Kidney Foundationhttp://www.kidney.org/ UrologyHealth.orghttp://www.urologyhealth.org/ CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Health Networkhttp://www.canadian-health-network.ca/ The Kidney Foundation of Canadahttp://www.kidney.ab.ca/ References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guide: 2006. MMWR. 2006;55. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment/2006/rr5511.pdf . Accessed February 5, 2008. Konety BR. Epididymitis. eMedicine website. Available at: http://www.emedicine.com . Accessed February 2, 2006. The Merck Manual Diagnosis & Therapy. 17th ed. Rahway, NJ: Merck & Co; 1999. Last reviewed January 2008 by Adrienne Carmack, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.