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Epididymitis

Epididymitis conditions, Symptoms and Causes in London

Epididymitis is the inflammation of the epididymis, which is a coiled tube usually found behind the testicle. The function of the epididymis is to carry and store sperm. This condition can happen to people assigned male at birth (AMAB) and men of all ages. Bacterial infections and STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea commonly cause epididymitis.

You may also notice swelling of your testicle, known as epididymo-orchitis. These conditions can be treated by using antibiotics coupled with other measures to relieve the pain.

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Common epididymitis symptoms

If you have Epididymitis, you might notice some of the following:

  • Blood in the semen
  • Warm, discoloured or swollen scrotum
  • Painful urination
  • Discharge from the penis
  • Fever, but in rare cases
  • Pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen
  • Urgency to urinate frequently
  • Pain in the testicle
  • Tenderness on the testicle, commonly on one side

Chronic Epididymitis

If you have Epididymitis and it exceeds six weeks or recurs repeatedly, then you might have chronic Epididymitis. You might not notice the symptoms simultaneously as they become visible slowly. Sometimes, your healthcare professional may not see the cause of this condition.

When should you seek the help of a doctor?

You should call the doctor once you notice swelling or pain in your scrotum. Several reasons can cause it, so proper diagnosis by an expert is advised. Some of these conditions might need urgent treatment as they can lead to permanent damage. If you experience painful urination, discharge from your penis or severe scrotal pain, seek the help of a medical practitioner right away.

What causes Epididymitis?

  • Urine in the epididymis

    This is uncommon and results from the backward flow of urine into the epididymis, leading to a chemical irritation. Strains and heavy lifting can also cause this.

  • Tuberculosis

    This rarely happens, but there is a chance that tuberculosis will cause this condition.

  • Trauma

    If you have an injury in your groin, you may also experience Epididymitis.

  • STIs

    The most common causes of Epididymitis as a result of STIs are gonorrhoea and chlamydia, and more common in young and sexually active men.

  • Other infections

    Prostrate and urinary tract infections can spread bacteria to the epididymis. Also, an infection like mumps virus can result in this condition.

  • Risk Factors of Epididymitis

    There are sexual and non-sexually related things that can increase your risk of having Epididymitis.

    Some non-sexual things that can increase your risk are:

    • A weakened immune system
    • Having UTIs (urinary tract infections) or prostrate infection
    • Uncircumcised penis
    • Prostrate enlargement increases the risk of Epididymitis and other bladder infections.
    • Differences between the basic urinary tract anatomy
    • Medical procedures affecting the urinary tract, such as the insertion of a urinary catheter into the penis

    Some sexual patterns that can increase your risk of having Epididymitis

    • Anal sex
    • Having sex with a partner who is infected with STI
    • Sex without condom
    • Had STI in the past

Are there complications associated with Epididymitis?

This condition, if left untreated, can lead to a lot of complications like:

  • Reduced fertility, but this happens rarely
  • Hydrocele, which is the accumulation of serous fluid around the testicle
  • Abscess in the scrotum
  • swelling of your testicle, known as epididymo-orchitis

How can I prevent this condition?

To prevent STIs that can lead to Epididymitis, practising safe sex is advised. If you have a UTI that puts you at higher risk of this condition or any other risk factor, you should contact your healthcare practitioner for ways to prevent this.

Get help!

If you have any symptoms relating to chlamydia or gonorrhoea that can increase your chances of having Epididymitis, kindly reach out to us at STI Clinic UK to get tested. We will provide guidance, advice, support, and treatment if necessary to help you stay healthy.