Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, a small tube connecting the testicle to the vas deferens.

What Are The Symptoms of Epididymitis?

The classic symptom of epididymitis is scrotal pain and swelling. There may also be testicular pain and swelling, as well as fever, blood in the semen, and penile discharge. There may be enlarged lymph nodes present in the groin area.

What Causes Epididymitis?

Epididymitis is usually caused by spread of infection from the urethra or the bladder. The most common organisms involved in the condition in young heterosexual men are gonorrhoea and chlamydia. In children and older men, typical uropathogens, such as coliform organisms (E. coli), are much more common. This is also true in the case of homosexual men. (Source: NIH).

Who Is Likely To Get Epididymitis?

Most cases of epididymitis occur in young men aged 19-35. Those at increased risk are:

• Sexually active men who are not monogamous and do not use condoms
• Men who have recently had surgery or have a history of structural problems involving the genitourinary tract
• Men who have chronic indwelling urethral catheters
• Uncircumcised men

What Does Treatment for Epididymitis Involve?

Antibiotic treatment is extremely important to get rid of the infection. Generallly a broad-spectrum antibiotic agent is prescribed; ciprofloxacin and the other fluoroquinolones ar effective. If the causative bacterial agent is an STD such as N. gonorrhea or Chlamydia (this can be ascertained via urine culture), an antibiotic specific to the responsible pathogen should be given.

What Are The Advantages Of Treatment?

How Long Does It Take?

This depends upon the particular antibiotic chosen. However, always finish all of the medication prescribed by your physician to avoid the development of resistant organisms./p>

How Many Treatments Are Required?

Recurrence is not uncommon, so more than one treatment may be required.

When Will I See Results?

Generally after a couple of days of antibiotic treatment, symptoms will begin to diminish.

What Are My Alternatives to Treat Epididymitis?

• Spermatic cord block
• Removal of the epididymis (for recurrent and intractable cases)

Will I Have Pain?

Epididymitis can be painful; treatment will alleviate the pain. Sometimes, administration of an opiate such as hydrocodone is helpful in managing pain.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

Sometimes in severe cases there may be a brief hospital stay. Otherwise, you should be able to return to work or school right away.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

One of our board-certified urologists will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover Epididymitis Treatment?

Insurance should cover this condition and any approved treatments.