What is epididymitis and orchitis?

Epididymitis and Orchitis

What is epididymitis?

The epididymis is a long, tightly coiled tube that lies above and behind each testicle. It collects and stores maturing sperm made by the testicles prior to ejaculation. Inflammation and infection of the epididymis is called epididymitis.

What are the symptoms of epididymitis?

Pain, tenderness, and swelling in the scrotum (epididymides or testicles) that gradually get worse are the most common symptoms of epididymitis. Other symptoms may include fever and chills, frequent or painful urination, or a discharge from the penis.

How is epididymitis diagnosed?

Epididymitis is diagnosed using a physical exam and a medical history. A culture of discharge from the penis is done to check for a bacterial infection, such as a sexually transmitted infection. And a urinalysis and urine culture are done to check for a urinary tract infection. You may also have a blood test or other tests.

An ultrasound may be done to look for the cause of swelling. Causes may include problems like torsion of the testicle, an emergency condition that causes loss of blood flow to the testicles and requires urgent surgical treatment.

How is epididymitis treated?

If it is caused by an infection, epididymitis may be treated with antibiotics. Supportive measures, such as bed rest and anti-inflammatory medicines (such as ibuprofen or ketoprofen), may help relieve discomfort caused by epididymitis. You may also want to elevate your scrotum by rolling up a hand towel and placing it under your scrotum.

If epididymitis was caused by a sexually transmitted infection, your sex partner should also be evaluated and treated for a possible infection.

How can you care for epididymitis and orchitis in children?

  • If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
  • Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
    • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
    • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • Limit your child's activity to what is comfortable.
  • Have your child wear snug underwear or an athletic supporter. This can help reduce pain.
  • Apply either cold or heat to the swollen area. Use the one that works best for your child's pain. You may have your child sit in a warm bath for 15 minutes twice a day. This will help reduce the swelling more quickly.

Epididymitis and orchitis in children: When to call

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child's pain gets worse.
  • Your child has a new or higher fever.
  • Your child has new or more swelling of the testicle.
  • Your child has new belly pain or the pain gets worse.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child does not get better as expected.

©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated

The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.