Testes

Epididymitis is the inflammation of the epididymis (coiled tubes) in the back of the testicles that carry and store sperm. Epididymitis can affect men of any ages.

In most cases, epididymitis is caused by a bacterial infection, which includes sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia.

The signs and symptoms associated with epididymitis can be different depending on the severity. Here are some of the most common symptoms that patients report:

• Swollen, warm or red scrotum
• Pain when urinating
• Constant urge to urinate
• Painful and tender testicle, usually on one side only
• Fever
• Blood in semen
• Discharge from the penis
• Pelvic or lower abdomen pain

If you have symptoms for longer than six months or recurring epididymitis this is considered a chronic illness.

It is important that if you have scrotum pain, you do not ignore it, as it can be caused by a number of different reasons. Some causes of scrotum pain need immediate treatment to avoid permanent damage.

There are a number of different factors that can increase a man’s risk of developing epididymitis. This includes:

• Sexual intercourse with someone that has an STI
• Sexual intercourse without a condom
• A history of STI
• History of prostate or urinary tract infection
• A previous procedure that requires you to have a catheter or scope inserted into the penis
• Uncircumcised penis
• Prostate enlargement

To diagnose epididymitis, your doctor will conduct a physical examination of the testicles and surrounding areas. You may also need a rectal examination to see if the prostate is enlarged. You may also be sent for an STI screening, urine and blood test and an ultrasound.

Once you have had a clear diagnosis you will be put on a course of antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria that is causing the infection. You should start to feel the effects after a few days. It is important that you finish the course of antibiotics and go to see your doctor after if you are not fully recovered.

In some cases, men may form an abscess in your scrotum. If this is the case, you may need to have surgery to remove it. You may also be considered for surgery if you have an abnormality that is making you more susceptible to epididymitis.

If you have questions or wish to make an appointment please do contact us or visit our testis clinic.

Steve Priest, 48, was one of our patients with an extra special story.

Steve was unfortunately diagnosed with testicular cancer twice within two years and then diagnosed with prostate cancer only just last year.

In the UK alone, around 2,100 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer every year.

Here are some key facts to understand about testicular cancer:

• Incidence rates of testicular cancer are increasing worldwide in white men.
• It normally affects young or middle-aged men.
• Treatment for testicular cancer is very effective and nearly most men are cured.
• Like other cancers, it isn’t infectious – it can’t be passed on to other people.

What are the symptoms of testicular cancer?

The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a lump in a testicle. There may also be other symptoms, depending on whether the cancer has spread outside the testicle.

Some symptoms can include:

• swelling or a lump in a testicle, which is usually painless – occasionally the swelling may suddenly increase in size and become painful.
• a dull ache or pain, or heaviness in the scrotum.

If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body, there may be some of the following symptoms that patients experience:

• Pain in the back, groin, or lower abdomen – this can be caused due to the spread of the cancer to lymph nodes in the back of the abdomen.
• A cough, breathlessness or difficulty swallowing if lymph nodes in the chest area are affected. Rarely, if the cancer has spread to the lungs, coughing and breathlessness may be the main symptoms.
• Nipple/breast tenderness or breast swelling (gynaecomastia) – this isn’t common but can be caused by hormones produced by the cancer.

Can I do a testicular self-examination?

It is important to remember that testicular cancer is usually curable. If found early then it is also easier to treat. From puberty onwards, it’s important that all men check their testicles regularly (we would recommend once a month) for anything unusual like a lump or swelling. You’ll soon get to know what feels normal for you.

We would suggest that the best time to check your testicles is during or right after a warm bath or shower, when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Hold your scrotum in the palm of your hand, and use your fingers and thumb to examine each testicle. Feel for lumps, anything unusual, or differences between your testicles.

It’s normal for the testicles to be slightly different in size and for one to hang lower than the other. A normal testicle should feel smooth and firm (but not hard).

The epididymis (tube that carries sperm) lies at the top of the back part of each testicle. It feels like a soft, coiled tube. It’s not uncommon to get harmless cysts or benign lumps in the epididymis.

Lumps or swellings can be caused by other conditions, and most lumps aren’t cancer. But it’s very important that you have anything unusual checked by your doctor as soon as possible.

Healthcare professionals are used to dealing with problems like this on a regular basis. Remember that testicular cancer is nearly always curable, particularly when it’s found and treated early. On our final note, we must stress that you should never feel embarrassed about seeing your GP. 

Contact our Testes Clinic specialist team today – we are here to help.

This article is intended to inform and give insight but not treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a doctor. Always seek medical advice with any questions regarding a medical condition.