Overview
Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. It is a common cause of scrotal pain in males and can affect children, adolescents, and adults. In South Korea, urologists provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options to manage epididymitis effectively and prevent complications.
What is Epididymitis?
Epididymitis occurs when the epididymis becomes inflamed, usually due to bacterial infection or, less commonly, viral infection. The condition may be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (lasting longer than six weeks). In sexually active men, epididymitis is often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, while in older men, urinary tract infections or prostate issues may be responsible.
Symptoms
- Pain and swelling in one or both testicles
- Redness and warmth of the scrotum
- Tenderness along the epididymis
- Painful urination or frequent urination
- Discharge from the penis (in STI-related cases)
- Fever or chills in severe cases
- Pain during ejaculation or sexual activity
Causes
- Bacterial infections (including STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea)
- Urinary tract infections (especially in older men)
- Prostate infections
- Viral infections (rare)
- Trauma or injury to the groin area
Risk Factors
- Unprotected sexual activity
- History of STIs
- Recent urinary tract infections or catheterization
- Anatomical abnormalities of the urinary tract
- Age (more common in men under 35 for STI-related cases and over 50 for non-STI-related cases)
Complications
- Chronic epididymitis causing long-term discomfort
- Abscess formation in the scrotum
- Infertility if untreated and infection spreads
- Testicular atrophy in severe cases
- Spread of infection to the prostate or bloodstream
Prevention
- Practice safe sex (use condoms)
- Prompt treatment of urinary tract infections
- Maintain good personal hygiene
- Regular medical check-ups for men with recurrent infections
- Avoid trauma to the groin
Treatment Options in Korea
South Korea provides specialized urological care with modern diagnostics and effective treatment:
- Diagnosis
- Physical examination of the scrotum and testicles
- Urine tests and cultures
- STI testing
- Ultrasound to rule out testicular torsion or abscess
- Medication
- Antibiotics tailored to the causative organism (e.g., doxycycline, ceftriaxone)
- Pain relief with NSAIDs
- Supportive medications for swelling and inflammation
- Supportive Care
- Bed rest and scrotal elevation
- Ice packs to reduce swelling and pain
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity during recovery
- Surgical Intervention (if needed)
- Drainage of abscesses
- Rare surgical procedures for chronic cases or anatomical corrections
- Follow-Up Care
- Monitoring to ensure infection resolution
- STI counseling and treatment for partners
- Fertility evaluation if recurrent or severe infections
