What is epididymitis?
Epididymitis is an inflammation of the coiled tube (epididymis) at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm.
Males of any age can get epididymitis. Epididymitis is most often caused by a bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Sometimes, a testicle also becomes inflamed — a condition called epididymo-orchitis.
Signs and symptoms of epididymitis might include:
- A swollen, red, or warm scrotum
- Testicle pain and tenderness, usually on one side, usually comes on gradually
- Painful urination or an urgent or frequent need to urinate
- Discharge from the penis
- Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
- Blood in the semen
- Less commonly, fever
Chronic epididymitis
Epididymitis that lasts longer than six weeks or that recurs is considered chronic. Symptoms of chronic epididymitis might come on gradually. Sometimes the cause of chronic epididymitis isn't identified.
Causes of epididymitis include:
- Gonorrhea and chlamydia.
- Other bacterial or viral infections.
- Urine in the epididymis (chemical epididymitis).
- Trauma. A groin injury can cause epididymitis.
- Tuberculosis.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epididymitis/symptoms-
causes/syc-20363853
