Epididymitis is inflammation in the sperm-carrying tube at the back of your testicle. The swelling can cause intense pain in or around your testicle and scrotum. It can develop at all ages but is most common in young men ages 19 to 35. It usually occurs due to a bacterial infection or a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Infection often begins in the urethra, the prostate, or the bladder. Gonorrhea and chlamydia infections are most often the cause of the problem in young heterosexual men. In children and older men, it is more commonly caused by E coli and similar bacteria. This is also true in men who have sex with men.
Epididymitis may begin with a feeling of heaviness in the testicle area, low fever and chills. The testicle area also gets more sensitive to pressure. It will become painful as the condition progresses. An infection in the epididymis can easily spread to the testicle.
While epididymitis can be painful, it usually doesn’t cause any long-term problems, especially with early treatment. Epididymitis most often gets better with antibiotic treatment. Healthcare providers will also give you advice on how to relieve discomfort at home. There are no long-term sexual or reproductive problems in most cases. However, the condition may return.
Discomfort or pain in or around your testicles might not be something that’s easy to talk about. But even though it might be embarrassing, it’s important to get it checked out by a healthcare provider. They’ll do their best to make your visit as stress-free as possible. Remember to take all medications exactly as they prescribe and to follow their recommendations to ensure a successful recovery.
