what is epididymitis

Epididymitis

Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube behind the testicle that stores and carries sperm. It is usually caused by an infection, often from a urinary tract infection or a sexually transmitted infection such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.

Quick Scoop

Common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness in one testicle.
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in the scrotum.
• Fever or chills.
• Pain when urinating or ejaculating.
• Sometimes penile discharge.

Causes

Most cases are bacterial. In younger sexually active men, STIs are a common cause, while in older men it can be linked to bacteria from the urinary tract, such as E. coli.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves antibiotics, plus rest, pain relief, ice or cold compresses, and scrotal elevation. If an STI caused it, sexual partners may also need treatment.

When to get help

If you have sudden testicle pain, swelling, fever, or symptoms that are getting worse, you should get medical care promptly. Epididymitis can look similar to more urgent conditions, so it should not be self-diagnosed.

If you want, I can also give you a very short “in plain English” version or explain the difference between epididymitis and testicular torsion.