What causes epididymitis?

Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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The occurrence of epididymitis is primarily due to the inflammatory reaction caused by pathogenic microbial infections of the epididymis, with common pathogens including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This is mainly due to previous conditions such as urethritis, bacterial prostatitis, and vesiculitis not being timely treated, allowing the pathogenic microbes to gradually spread along the vas deferens to the epididymis, leading to inflammation. Epididymitis may also occur due to prolonged use of urinary catheters or post-prostate resection surgery. After the onset of epididymitis, the epididymis will exhibit symptoms of enlargement and pain. It is necessary to promptly use antibiotics for treatment. During the treatment period, attention should be paid to a light diet; avoid spicy and irritating foods, lie flat as much as possible, and elevate the scrotum. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
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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
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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
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What causes epididymitis?

The occurrence of epididymitis is primarily due to the inflammatory reaction caused by pathogenic microbial infections of the epididymis, with common pathogens including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This is mainly due to previous conditions such as urethritis, bacterial prostatitis, and vesiculitis not being timely treated, allowing the pathogenic microbes to gradually spread along the vas deferens to the epididymis, leading to inflammation. Epididymitis may also occur due to prolonged use of urinary catheters or post-prostate resection surgery. After the onset of epididymitis, the epididymis will exhibit symptoms of enlargement and pain. It is necessary to promptly use antibiotics for treatment. During the treatment period, attention should be paid to a light diet; avoid spicy and irritating foods, lie flat as much as possible, and elevate the scrotum. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Wang Shuai
Urology
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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
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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.