Epididymitis: What You Need to Know
Epididymitis, which sounds complicated but isn’t, is an inflammation of a tiny tube called the epididymis. This tube hangs out at the back of the testicle and has an essential job: storing and moving sperm. The good news is that this condition can affect males of any age. Now, let’s break it down further.
What causes epididymitis? Well, it’s often due to a pesky bacterial infection. Yep, those tiny troublemakers are the culprits. Some of these infections are sexually transmitted, like gonorrhea or chlamydia. (You can check your risk of STD here.) In some cases, the inflammation can even spread to the testicle itself, making it a double whammy known as epididymal-orchitis.
So, what are the signs that you might have epididymitis? Keep an eye out for:
- A swollen, discoloured, or warm scrotum.
- Testicle pain and tenderness, usually on one side, tend to creep up slowly.
- Pain during urination, which isn’t a pleasant experience.
- Feeling like you need to pee urgently and often.
- Seeing some unusual discharge from the penis.
- Experiencing pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.
- Finding blood in your semen can be concerning.
- You might even run a fever in some cases, although this is less common.
Now, if you’ve been dealing with this for over six weeks or if it keeps coming back, you might be dealing with chronic epididymitis. Sometimes, doctors can’t pinpoint the exact cause of this persistent issue.
Remember, don’t brush off scrotal pain or swelling. It could be a sign of various conditions, some of which require immediate attention to prevent long-term damage. Don’t hesitate to seek emergency care if you’re in severe pain. And if you notice any discharge from your penis or painful urination, it’s time to see a healthcare provider.
Epididymitis is inflammation in the tube behind your testicle, usually caused by a pesky infection. It can be a pain, but with the right treatment, you can get back to feeling your best. Don’t ignore the signs; your health matters!