Epididymitis

GENERAL INFORMATION:

What is it? Epididymitis (eh-pih-did-ih-mi-tis) is an infection or swelling of the epididymis (eh-pih-did-ih-mus). The epididymis is the tube that carries sperm from the testicles to the penis. There are 2 of these tubes, 1 attached to each testicle. Epididymitis is common in men 19 to 35 years old. It may take 2 to 4 weeks for your epididymis to get better. If your infection is not treated, you could become sterile. Sterile means that you do not have enough sperm to make babies.

Causes: This infection may be started by germs called bacteria (bak-teer-e-uh). Bacteria may travel from an infected bladder or prostate (prah-state) gland to the epididymis. Sometimes you can get an infection from having sex with an infected person. Swelling of the prostate or removing the prostate may cause epididymitis. An injury to your scrotum may also cause epididymitis. The scrotum is the bag of skin that holds your testicles.

Signs and Symptoms: You may have a fever. Your scrotum may hurt, and look red and swollen. You may feel pain or see pus when passing urine. You may feel a lump in your scrotum.

Care: A sample of your urine will need to be sent to a lab. There it will be looked at for germs. If you have an infection, you will need to take antibiotic (an-ti-bi-ah-tik) medicine to kill the germs. Resting may help you feel better. Putting ice or heat on your scrotum may lessen the pain. Using a scrotal support or athletic supporter (jock strap) may also help lessen the pain.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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