How is epididymitis caused?

Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
Updated on September 05, 2024
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Epididymitis refers to the inflammation of the epididymis, characterized by enlargement and pain, caused by infections from pathogens such as bacteria. The main cause of epididymitis is usually a preceding infection such as urethritis, bacterial prostatitis, or vesiculitis that was not timely treated. Bacteria spread along the vas deferens to the epididymis, leading to epididymitis. Additionally, trauma to the epididymis can also cause epididymitis. Another common scenario is related to certain medical procedures, such as prolonged catheterization or after undergoing plasma electrocautery surgery of the prostate, which can easily lead to epididymitis. Once epididymitis occurs, it is crucial to promptly treat it with antibiotics. During treatment, it is advisable to consume a light diet, avoid spicy and stimulating food, rest as much as possible in bed, and keep the scrotum elevated. (Specific medication usage should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
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Can you exercise with epididymitis?

Epididymitis refers to the condition where the epididymis becomes enlarged and painful due to infections caused by bacteria, viruses, etc. The testicle may also experience a significant sensation of heaviness and pain. In such cases, it is not advisable to engage in vigorous physical activities. Instead, it is recommended to lie down as flat as possible and elevate the scrotum, which helps in improving local blood circulation. If intense physical activities are performed during the treatment of epididymitis, it can exacerbate the condition, resulting in significant pain. Therefore, it is best to avoid vigorous exercises while suffering from epididymitis. Prompt anti-inflammatory treatment is necessary, and the diet should be as bland as possible, avoiding spicy and irritating foods.

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Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
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Why is epididymitis getting more painful?

After suffering from epididymitis, the epididymis will show symptoms of enlargement and pain. If not treated promptly, the epididymis will further enlarge, and the pain will gradually become more pronounced, which is a normal phenomenon. However, if the pain continues to worsen despite active treatment, it should be considered that this may be due to a lack of attention to lifestyle care, such as engaging in vigorous exercise during treatment, or situations involving prolonged standing or sitting. Additionally, it is important to be vigilant about the possibility of testicular torsion accompanying epididymitis. Therefore, if the pain continues to worsen during the treatment of epididymitis, it is advisable to promptly re-examine the color Doppler ultrasound to understand the blood flow situation of the testicles and epididymis, and then proceed with targeted treatment.

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Urology
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How to exercise for self-healing of epididymal cysts

Epididymal cysts cannot heal through exercise alone. Also known as spermatocele, an epididymal cyst primarily occurs due to the blockage of the epididymal tubules, which can be caused by congenital factors or acquired factors such as infections or trauma. In most cases, epididymal cysts are small and the patient may not experience any discomfort. In such cases, no special treatment is needed; regular ultrasonic examinations at the hospital to monitor any changes in the size of the cyst are sufficient. However, some patients may have larger cysts that cause pain in the testicles and epididymis. For these cases, surgical removal of the cyst or aspiration of the fluid from the cyst can be considered.

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Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
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Do you need to avoid certain foods if you have epididymitis?

After being diagnosed with epididymitis, there are dietary restrictions to consider. Here are a few things to keep in mind regarding your diet: First, it's important to eat lightly. Avoid spicy and irritating foods such as onions, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. Try to eat these sparingly or not at all. Also, avoid drinking strong tea, coffee, and other stimulating beverages. It's necessary to quit smoking and drinking alcohol, and instead, increase your intake of fresh vegetables and fruits to boost your vitamin intake. Beyond diet, there are also lifestyle considerations to keep in mind. Try to lie flat as much as possible and keep your scrotum elevated. This can promote local blood circulation, which is beneficial for the treatment of the condition. Avoid vigorous exercise and prolonged sitting or standing.

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Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
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What should I do if I have an epididymal nodule?

Many patients who have suffered from epididymitis will have a hard, smooth-surfaced, slightly tender, or asymptomatic nodule left on the epididymis after the swelling subsides and pain is controlled. This type of nodule is also referred to as a negative nodule. These nodules are difficult to completely eliminate with antibiotics, or may not be eliminated at all. If the patient does not have significant discomfort, no special treatment is necessary. If the presence of the nodule leads to recurrent inflammation or significant pain, affecting the patient's normal work and life, it may be considered to apply local heat or gently massage to promote the reduction of the nodule. If these treatments do not effectively improve the condition, it is recommended to surgically remove the nodule from the epididymis.