Epididymitis
Epididymitis is a condition in which inflammation occurs in the sperm duct, aka the epididymis. This duct is located behind the testicles. The epididymis duct connects the testicles and the vas deferens. Meanwhile, the vas deferens is the sperm duct that goes directly to the exit in the penis when a man ejaculates. The epididymis plays a role in storing and carrying sperm.
Inflammation of the epididymitis can be experienced by men of any age. However, this condition is most common in men aged 19 to 35 years. The risk is greater in people who have multiple partners or engage in risky sexual activity. This can cause someone to contract a sexually transmitted disease, where the bacteria that cause it trigger epididymitis.
Symptoms of Epididymitis
There are several symptoms that can appear in men with epididymitis, including:
- The scrotum will be swollen, feel warm, be painful to the touch, or be reddish in color.
- Pain in the testicles, especially when touched.
- Blood in the semen.
- Pain when urinating.
- Increased frequency of urination and always feeling incomplete.
- There is a lump around the testicles caused by fluid accumulation.
- The tip of the penis is emitting an abnormal fluid, usually associated with a sexually transmitted disease.
- Pain during ejaculation or sexual intercourse.
- Pain in the lower abdomen or around the pelvis.
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin.
- Fever may occur, although it is quite rare.
If this condition does not improve for more than six weeks or recurs, it is called chronic epididymitis. In chronic epididymitis, symptoms appear gradually and require medical attention.
Causes of Epididymitis
Epididymitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Cases of epididymitis usually start from an infection in the urethra, prostate, or bladder. E. coli and similar bacteria are the cause of epididymitis in children and the elderly.
Generally, some of the causes of epididymitis are:
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Urinary tract infection
Chemical Epididymitis, is a condition where urine flows back into the epididymis due to the body overstretching or lifting heavy objects.
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Mumps or mumps
Sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, are common causes of epididymitis in sexually active men.
- Infection in boys and men who are not sexually active
- Groin injury
- Behcet’s disease
- Tuberculosis
Epididymitis Risk Factors
Some other factors that can increase the risk of epididymitis are:
- Prostate enlargement.
- Prostate infection or urinary tract infection.
- Have had a medical procedure that affected the urinary tract.
- Uncircumcised men.
- Abnormal anatomical location of the urinary tract.
- Having sexual intercourse with someone who is infected in the sexual tract.
- Having unprotected sex.
- Have a history of sexually transmitted diseases.
Diagnosis of Epididymitis
The doctor will ask questions about your medical history and sexual activity, then will examine the genital area.
Next, the doctor will perform the following tests:
– Urine analysis. A test performed to analyze urine.
– Urine Cultures. This test is done to see if there are bacteria in the urine, especially urinary tract infections.
– Laboratory tests. This test is to find out some bacteria that may be the cause of epididymitis.
– Blood tests. These tests are done to check for signs of infection, such as sexually transmitted diseases.
Epididymitis Treatment
- Antibiotic drugs.
- Pain relievers and rest.
- Surgery.
Epididymitis Prevention
Can this condition be prevented? It turns out it can. The way to do this is by avoiding things that can increase the risk. Here are tips to prevent epididymitis that can be done:
– Have sex in a healthy way and avoid changing partners.
– Use contraception during intercourse.
– Regularly have check-ups with a doctor.
When to See a Doctor?
Contact a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of inflammation or symptoms of a disease resembling epididymitis. Proper treatment can minimize complications, so that treatment can be done more quickly. Choose a doctor that suits your needs with the Ask a Doctor feature.
