Epididite is inflammation of the epididymis, a small channel that connects the defern channel to the testicle and where sperm matures and is stored.
This inflammation often causes symptoms such as scrotum swelling and pain, especially when walking or moving. Epididite can occur at any age, but is more common between the ages of 14 and 35 due to a bacterial infection or a sexually transmitted disease.
- When caused by an infection.
- Epididimite is usually acute and therefore symptoms last 1 to 6 weeks.
- Improving as an antibiotic treatment.
- However.
- When inflammation is caused by other factors.
- It can be more difficult to treat and last more than 6 weeks.
- Considered chronic.
The most common symptoms of epididite include
These symptoms may begin to decrease and worsen over time, to the point where it is not possible to move due to severe pain. Whenever symptoms that may indicate a change in the testicles occur, it is important to consult the urologist to identify the correct cause and begin the most appropriate treatment.
Men with sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, may develop inflammation of the epididioma, however, if there is another infection such as tuberculosis, prostatitis or urinary tract infection, for example.
In children, on the other hand, epididimite usually occurs after a violent blow to the intimate area or when the testicle is twisted. In both cases, the symptoms are similar to those of the adult and should be treated as soon as possible in the hospital.
Diagnosis of epididimite may be made by your doctor only on the basis of observation and palpation of the intimate area, but it may be necessary to confirm it by tests such as urine examination, Doppler ultrasound, CT or MRI, for example. .
Since most cases of epididimite are caused by an infection, treatment usually begins with the use of antibiotics such as:
These antibiotics should be taken for up to 4 weeks, according to your doctor’s advice, even if your symptoms have improved.
In addition, to alleviate symptoms, it is always advisable to rest, avoid lifting very heavy objects and apply ice to the area. The urologist may also prescribe anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to improve well-being during recovery.
This type of treatment is usually quite effective and symptoms improve in about 2 weeks, however, in some cases, epididimite can take up to 3 months to completely disappear. In these cases, your doctor may also evaluate the need for surgery, especially if the epididimite is not caused by an infection but by a change in the anatomy of the testicles, for example.