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Understanding Epididymitis
Definition and Overview
Epididymitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the epididymis, a tube-like structure located at the back of the testicle that stores and transports sperm. This structure is a vital part of the male genitourinary tract, and its inflammation can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain. Epididymitis can be classified as either acute or chronic. Acute epididymitis develops suddenly and can cause intense symptoms, while chronic epididymitis persists for more than six weeks and may result in ongoing discomfort. The causes of epididymitis can be bacterial, viral, or chemical in nature, with bacterial infections being the most common culprit.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy as an Adjunctive Treatment for Acute Epididymitis
Antibiotics remain the first line of treatment for Epididymitis. But you may recover faster if the treatment includes pelvic floor physical therapy because it proves to help ease symptoms of epididymitis and boost immunity. Before we continue with how pelvic floor therapists can help relieve your painful symptoms, let us discuss first what causes it and what are the risk factors.
Epididymitis occurs when the epididymis, a long, coiled tube behind each testicle, becomes inflamed. Sexually transmitted infections often cause this condition, but many other types of bacteria can also cause it. To reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, it is advisable to avoid multiple sexual partners and practice safe sex.
Epididymitis can affect anyone, but it is most common among men ages 14 to 35. Each year, the United States experiences approximately 600,000 cases of epididymitis.
There are two types of epididymitis. The first is acute epididymitis which lasts up to six weeks. Usually, the testes are also inflamed with acute epididymitis. It is also called epididymo-orchitis because it is difficult to distinguish whether the epididymis, the testes, or both are inflamed. This is why epididymo-orchitis is a commonly used term.
Another type of epididymitis is chronic epididymitis, which lasts for more than six weeks. Affected patients may feel discomfort in their crotch, epididymis, or testicles. This may be the result of granulomatous reactions, which can cause cysts or calcifications.
Identify whether it’s epididymitis
Although epididymitis may start with just a few mild symptoms, if left untreated, the symptoms can become more severe.
Epididymitis may cause the following symptoms:
- a gradual or sudden ache in either of your testicles (balls)
- a build-up of fluid (hydrocele) around your testicle
- a feeling of tenderness, warmth, and swelling around the rest of your testicle (scrotum)
- One of the primary symptoms is acute scrotal pain, which can develop gradually but requires prompt medical attention to rule out other urgent conditions like testicular torsion.
Symptoms may also include difficulty in peeing or a white, yellow, or green discharge from the tip of the penis, depending on the cause.
Common Symptoms
The symptoms of epididymitis can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain in the testicle or scrotum
- Swelling and redness of the scrotum
- Discharge from the penis
- Painful urination
- Fever and chills
- Enlarged or tender prostate gland
- Bowel movement symptoms, such as painful bowel movements or blood in the stool
In some cases, epididymitis can cause severe testicle pain, which can be a sign of testicular torsion, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical help promptly to prevent complications.
Exams and Tests
Diagnosing epididymitis typically involves a combination of a physical exam, medical history, and laboratory tests. During the physical exam, a healthcare provider will check for signs of inflammation, such as swelling and tenderness, and assess the prostate gland. Laboratory tests, including urine tests and blood tests, may be ordered to identify bacterial infections, sexually transmitted infections, or other underlying conditions.
Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or Doppler ultrasound, can be used to evaluate the epididymis and testicles for signs of inflammation or damage. In some cases, a healthcare provider may perform a rectal exam to check for an enlarged or tender prostate gland. These diagnostic steps are essential for determining the appropriate treatment plan and addressing the root cause of the condition.
Epididymitis has several causes, including sexually transmitted infections
Common causes of epididymitis are two sexually transmitted infections: gonorrhea and chlamydia. These infections often lead to scrotal pain, which is a significant symptom of epididymitis. However, the causes can sometimes be by E. coli bacteria or the same bacteria that causes tuberculosis in rare cases. Urinary tract infection has also been implicated in the condition, although UTIs are less common in men. These causes are considered non-sexually transmitted.
Risk Factors for Epididymitis
Epididymitis may be more likely to develop if you:
- are uncircumcised people
- have unprotected sexual activity. Engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse increases the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, which can lead to epididymitis.
- suffer from urinary tract structural problems
- take heart medications called amiodarone
- are using a catheter
- recently injured the groin
- recently undergone urinary tract surgery
- have a blocked bladder caused by an enlarged prostate
- suffer from tuberculosis (TB).
Complications of Epididymitis
Testicular Torsion and Infertility
If left untreated, epididymitis can lead to several complications, including testicular torsion and infertility. Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. This can cause severe pain, swelling, and permanent damage to the testicle if not treated promptly.
Epididymitis can also impact fertility by damaging the epididymis and affecting sperm production and transport. Chronic epididymitis can lead to scarring and blockage of the epididymis, making it difficult for sperm to reach the penis and fertilize an egg.
Other complications of epididymitis include:
- Severe infection, which can spread to other parts of the body
- Testicular infarction, which can cause permanent damage to the testicle
- Chronic epididymitis, which can cause ongoing pain and discomfort
- Increased risk of testicular cancer
To reduce the risk of complications, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms of epididymitis occur. Practicing safe sex, avoiding multiple sexual partners, and getting regular STI screenings can also help prevent epididymitis and its complications. Taking these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing severe infections and other long-term health issues.
Treatment for Epididymitis
The treatment of epididymitis involves treating underlying infections and easing symptoms. In treating underlying infections, the most common prescription is antibiotics. Taking it as prescribed will make you feel better in a matter of days. However, no matter how well you feel, take the entire course of antibiotics to ensure the bacteria is treated.
Aside from antibiotics, physical therapy can help ease symptoms. Physical therapists use clinical therapy, workouts, and physical activities in treating epididymitis. It can help boost immunity and enhance faster recovery. Pelvic floor exercises help to relax the pelvic floor and prevent pain, burning, or tightening feelings in the testicular area because of the blood flow blockage.
But know that exercises for epididymitis have limits. Getting guidance from a physical therapist ensures that you are doing the exercises for epididymitis correctly.
If you are looking for a trusted physical therapy clinic, look no further than PELVIS.NYC. We have successfully treated epididymitis and have helped ease all its symptoms. We focus on their health as if it were our own so we provide the best treatment plan. Visit www.pelvis.nyc for a free 15-minute teleconsultation to better assess your problem.
When to seek help for severe pain?
If you’re experiencing severe testicular pain, swelling, or discomfort that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatments, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Epididymitis can lead to serious complications like testicular torsion or infertility if not addressed promptly.
At Pelvis NYC, our experts specialize in pelvic floor therapy and other science-backed treatments for epididymitis and related conditions. Don’t let pain control your life—our team is here to provide the personalized care you need.
👉 Schedule your FREE 15-minute teleconsultation at Pelvis NYC and take the first step toward lasting relief.
Related Blog: The Ultimate Guide to Chronic Epididymitis Relief—Backed by Science – Pelvis.nyc
