Epididymitis is inflammation that occurs in the epididymis, an important part of the male reproductive system. In addition to intense pain in the testicles, other symptoms that may appear include swelling, redness, and sometimes fever. The common cause of epididymitis is infection, either from bacteria or viruses, and is often related to sexually transmitted infections.

Let's look at a further explanation of what epididymitis is in the article below.

What is Epididymitis?

Epididymitis is a medical condition that requires serious attention. The main symptoms include inflammation of the epididymis, pain in the testicular area, swelling, and redness around the scrotum. 

In some cases, it can be accompanied by fever and pain when urinating. Immediately consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms, because proper treatment is very important to prevent further complications.

Read Also: Treating Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

The cause of epididymitis is generally caused by infection, either bacterial or viral. Sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, are often found in sexually active young men. However, non-sexual infections can also occur due to urinary tract infections or the use of catheters.

To prevent epididymitis, it is important to maintain personal hygiene, use protection during sexual intercourse, and avoid risky sexual behavior. Awareness of reproductive health is very important in reducing the risk of developing epididymitis and other sexually transmitted diseases. With proper treatment and good preventive measures, men's quality of life can be maintained optimally.

Causes of Epididymitis

Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis which is generally caused by infection spreading from surrounding organs, such as the urinary tract, prostate and bladder. This infection is most often caused by bacteria, although viruses can also be a cause. One of the main risk factors is sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, which are more common in men with multiple sexual partners.

In men over 40 years of age, epididymitis is often caused by retrograde urine flow, where urine flows back in the wrong direction, or by bacteria. Escherichia Coli originating from the digestive system. 

Meanwhile, in young men who have not yet experienced puberty, the cause can be related to trauma, repetitive physical activity, or complications from mumps infection. If there are sexually transmitted infections in this age group, it is necessary to be aware of the possibility of sexual harassment.

Read Also: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Definition, Symptoms, Prevention

Apart from infection, epididymitis can also be caused by several non-infectious conditions, including:

• Injury in the groin area.
• Prostate enlargement.
• Urine reflux, which often occurs during sexual intercourse with a full bladder.
• Testicular torsion.
• Autoimmune diseases such as sarcoidosis.
• Long-term use of a urinary catheter.
• Side effects of drugs such as amiodarone.
• Post-operative complications of the genital organs.
• Tuberculosis infection, although this is rare.

Given the complexity of the causes, it is important to perform a proper medical examination for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of Epididymitis

Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis which can cause various symptoms in men. The following are some common symptoms:

• Scrotal Swelling: The scrotum may become swollen, feel warm, be painful to the touch, and may show a reddish discoloration.
• Testicular Pain: Pain in the testicles, especially when touched, is one of the main symptoms to watch out for.
• Blood in Sperm: The presence of blood in sperm fluid can be an indicator of a more serious problem.
• Pain when Urinating: Sufferers often feel pain when urinating, accompanied by increased frequency of urination which is not accompanied by a feeling of relief.
• Lumps Around Testicles: Sometimes, there are lumps due to fluid buildup in the testicular area.
• Abnormal Discharge from the Tip of the Penis: Abnormal discharge from the tip of the penis, which is often associated with sexually transmitted infections, is worth noting.
• Pain during Ejaculation or Sexual Intercourse: Pain felt during ejaculation or during intercourse can be a sign of a problem.
• Lower Abdominal Pain: Another symptom that may appear is pain in the lower abdomen or around the pelvis.
• Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the groin area can also occur.
• Fever: Although rare, fever can accompany these symptoms.

If the symptoms do not improve in more than six weeks or reappear, then this condition can be considered chronic epididymitis. In the chronic phase, symptoms tend to appear gradually and require more intensive medical treatment.

Steps Epididymitis Treatment

Epididymitis treatment aims to treat the infection and relieve the symptoms that accompany it. The following are several treatment methods that can be used:

1. Consuming Drugs

If epididymitis is caused by a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics such as ceftriaxone, doxycycline, or levofloxacin. This antibiotic use usually lasts 1-2 weeks. 

If the infection is related to a sexually transmitted disease, the patient's partner also needs to undergo similar treatment. Generally, patients will feel improvement within 2-3 days after starting treatment. 

However, it is important to complete the entire antibiotic prescription even if symptoms have subsided. After the treatment period is complete, a follow-up examination with a doctor is necessary to ensure that the infection has completely disappeared. Apart from antibiotics, your doctor may also prescribe pain and inflammation relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.

2. Operational Action

If pus forms in the epididymis, the doctor will perform a surgical procedure to remove the pus. In more serious cases of epididymitis, removal of the epididymal duct (epididymectomy) may be required. Surgery can also be performed to correct abnormalities in the urinary tract that can trigger epididymitis.

3. Self-Care

To support the healing process, patients are advised to take several self-care steps at home, including:

• Position your legs higher than your body when lying down to reduce pressure on the scrotum.
• Wear pants that provide support to the scrotum.
• Compress the scrotum with ice cubes wrapped in a clean cloth.
• Avoid lifting heavy loads.
• Postpone intimate relations until the condition has completely recovered.

By following these steps, it is hoped that the healing process can take place more optimally.

Epididymitis Prevention Measures

Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis which can be caused by bacterial or viral infections. Although not all cases can be prevented, there are several epididymitis prevention measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing this disease.

1. Use a Condom During Intercourse

In addition to preventing unwanted pregnancies, condoms also serve as effective protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including those that can cause epididymitis. Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis, which can be caused by bacterial infection, viruses, or even trauma.

By using condoms, we can reduce the risk of exposure to pathogens that cause STIs, which are often a trigger factor for epididymitis. It's important to remember that not everyone realizes how serious the impact of STIs is, and how these conditions can affect long-term reproductive health.

2. Undergo a Circumcision

In addition, undergoing circumcision (circumcision) has also been proven to reduce the risk of infection, including urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases. Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves removing the foreskin of the penis, and research shows that circumcised men have a lower risk of developing epididymitis, an inflammation of the epididymis that can cause pain and discomfort.

3. Maintain cleanliness of the genital area

Personal hygiene is an important aspect in maintaining health, especially genital hygiene. Cleaning the genital area regularly not only helps maintain freshness, but also prevents various health problems that can arise due to lack of hygiene. 

One condition that can arise due to poor hygiene is epididymitis, namely inflammation of the epididymis which can be caused by bacterial infection. To prevent this problem, it is important to clean the genital area with mild soap and clean water every day. 

In addition, after using the toilet, make sure to clean the toilet seat with disinfectant to avoid bacteria that can move to the genital area. Using underwear that is made from cotton and is not too tight can also help maintain air circulation and prevent excess moisture, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria.

4. Get the Tuberculosis Vaccine

Finally, don't forget to get the necessary vaccinations, including vaccinations to prevent tuberculosis infection which can trigger reproductive health problems. 

The TB vaccine is very important, especially for those at high risk of exposure to germs Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. This infection can not only affect the lungs, but can also cause serious complications such as epididymitis, which is inflammation of the epididymis which can interfere with male reproductive function.

Epididymitis is often caused by an infection that spreads from another part of the body, and TB infection is one cause that needs attention. Therefore, getting the TB vaccine not only protects yourself from lung infections, but also plays a role in maintaining the health of the reproductive system.

Watch the explanation about “Epididymitis, Inflammation of the Sperm Tracts That Lurks in Men!!” in the video below

Epididymitis is basically a condition that can be treated easily. It is important to immediately consult a doctor as soon as you feel symptoms. Quick and appropriate treatment can prevent serious complications, including fertility problems. During the treatment process, make sure to take medication according to the doctor's instructions and do not miss post-treatment visits. This is important to ensure that the infection has completely resolved.

References:

https://www.siloamhospitals.com/informasi-siloam/artikel/apa-itu-epididimitis 

https://www.alodokter.com/epididimitis 

https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/epididimitis?srsltid=AfmBOopVfTIqfYmBcpYlf1ZX9k7evWyA4XZ0P96bVgfRXhKIskv2olQ4 

https://bocahindonesia.com/epididimitis-gejala-penyebab-komplikasi-caramengobati/