Epididymitis
Epididymitis
Epididymitis (pronounced: eh-pi-did-uh-MY-tis) is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the epididymis, a tube located at the back of the testicles that stores and carries sperm.
Etymology
The term "Epididymitis" is derived from the Greek words "epi" meaning "upon", "didymis" meaning "testicle", and "-itis" meaning "inflammation".
Causes
Epididymitis is most commonly caused by a bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. In other cases, epididymitis can be caused by non-sexually transmitted infections or by the backward flow of urine into the epididymis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of epididymitis can include a tender, swollen, red or warm scrotum, testicle pain and tenderness (usually on one side), painful urination or an urgent or frequent need to urinate, a discharge from the penis, pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area, and less commonly, fever.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of epididymitis involves a physical examination, testing for STIs, and an ultrasound scan to rule out conditions like testicular torsion.
Treatment
Treatment for epididymitis involves antibiotics for infections, pain relievers, and rest. It's also recommended to avoid lifting heavy objects or straining. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Related Terms
- Orchitis: Inflammation of one or both of the testicles.
- Prostatitis: Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland.
- Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epididymitis
- Wikipedia's article - Epididymitis
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