Last time, we discussed blue balls. Let’s go for red today.
The epididymis is the coiled tube behind the testicles where produced spermatozoa are stored. The testes produce the sperm but stored as described above.
This tube could get inflamed due to instigating factors and (known as Epididymitis,) or affects the testicles as in Epididymo-orchitis.
This is usually caused by an infection of the urinary tract, mostly sexually transmitted infections. This condition can affect males of any age.
A male could notice that his testicles are swollen, red, warm, with associated pain on one or both testicles. There could also be fever, difficulty or inability to urinate or a discharge on the penis. These symptoms are highly suspicious of epididymo-orchitis. Some others even report blood in the semen.
Sexually transmitted infections, gonorrhoea and chlamydia are the most common causes. Trauma to the groin region, tuberculosis, and a backflow of urine to the epididymis are other causes.
Chronic conditions result from having recurrent infections or having a primary infection that lasts more than six weeks.
Both sexual and non-sexual risk factors can predispose a person to develop epididymo-orchitis.
Having sex without a condom, having intercourse with someone with an STI, or having a history of STIs are sexual risk factors. A history of prostate or urinary tract infections are also risk factors. The same goes for a history of urinary catheter insertion into the penis. Having an uncircumcised penis or an anatomical abnormality of the urinary tract are non-sexual risk factors, in addition to prostate enlargement.
When any of these symptoms are apparent, it is wise to visit the hospital as soon as possible, for a thorough and wholesome evaluation.
The doctor would carry out a complete physical examination and urogenital examination, with special attention on the testes, and a rectal examination for the prostate.
Recommended tests would include a swab for STI screening, blood tests and an ultrasound to confirm a diagnosis.
Treatment is via antibiotics, with dosage and duration as recommended by the doctor. Most times, the sexual partner(s) of the patient are equally treated.
If not early attended to, it could lead to abscess collection which would require surgery to drain.
Practice safe sex only. This cannot be overemphasized.
Reference:
Mayoclinic
