Is epididymitis serious?

Written by Wang Shuai

Urology

Updated on September 16, 2024

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Whether epididymitis is severe depends on the patient's condition. If it is an early case of epididymitis, the epididymis may just be enlarged and painful, which is not very serious. Generally, using antibiotics and regular treatment, it can heal in about 1 to 2 weeks.

However, if treatment is not administered in time, leading to abscesses in the epididymis and testicle, or even rupture of the abscesses, the situation is relatively severe. It requires immediate surgical intervention to drain the abscess. The prognosis thereafter is relatively poor, and it can easily lead to the possibility of testicular atrophy. Therefore, epididymitis should be treated promptly.

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Written by Wang Shuai

Urology

1min 9sec

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How is epididymitis caused?

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

1min 4sec

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Epididymitis and orchitis, what is the difference?

The epididymis and testicles are both part of the male reproductive organs. The epididymis is an accessory gland of the testicle and is located adjacent to it. If epididymitis or orchitis occurs, it is difficult to distinguish between them based on symptoms alone, as both conditions can cause noticeable enlargement and pain of the scrotum, but further examination is required for a definitive diagnosis. During a physical examination, it can be observed that patients with epididymitis have a noticeably enlarged epididymis, while the enlargement of the testicle is not as prominent. Conversely, with orchitis, the testicle is significantly enlarged, while the enlargement of the epididymis is less noticeable. Since these two organs are adjacent, epididymitis often occurs with orchitis, and vice versa. Clarification typically requires examinations such as ultrasonography. However, there are no significant differences in the treatment of these two conditions, so they are often collectively referred to as epididymo-orchitis.

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Written by Wang Shuai

Urology

44sec

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What foods should not be eaten with epididymitis?

Patients with epididymitis need to pay attention to their diet by eating light and avoiding overly greasy foods. They should consume more fresh vegetables and fruits. Additionally, they should avoid spicy and irritating foods such as onions, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers, and limit or completely avoid these items. It is necessary to quit smoking and drinking alcohol, and also avoid drinking strong tea, coffee, and other stimulating beverages. Besides dietary considerations, it is important to avoid sitting for long periods and refrain from vigorous exercise. Patients should try to lie down as much as possible and elevate the scrotum to help promote local blood circulation, which is beneficial for the treatment of the condition.

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Written by Wang Shuai

Urology

55sec

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Symptoms of epididymitis

The main symptoms of epididymitis include enlargement of the epididymis, accompanied by noticeable pain. The skin of the scrotum will appear red and swollen, and touching the scrotum will reveal an increase in local skin temperature. If not treated in time, an epididymal abscess may develop, causing a palpable fluctuation when touching the epididymis. If not addressed promptly, the abscess may rupture, leading to the leakage of pus from the scrotum. If epididymitis is diagnosed, it is important to seek timely treatment at a hospital's urology department. Diagnosis is typically confirmed via ultrasound and a local physical examination, and prompt treatment with antibiotics is necessary. If an abscess has already formed, surgical incision and drainage may be required. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor, and self-medication should be avoided.)

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Written by Wang Shuai

Urology

49sec

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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.