Epididymitis & Orchitis

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for epididymitis and orchitis. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.

When you need epididymitis and orchitis care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

Epididymitis
Acute cases of epididymitis are primarily caused by bacterial infection. In male children who haven’t reached puberty, the infection may start in the bladder or kidney and spread to the testes. In adult males, epididymis may be caused by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including chlamydia, mycoplasma and, in rare cases, gonorrhea. These infections begin in the urethra and move into the testes, in some cases leading to a discharge of fluid from the urethra. Additional causes include:

• Enlarged prostate
• Infection of the prostate gland
• Partially blocked urethra

Orchitis
Orchitis is typically caused by the mumps virus or another viral infection.

Symptoms of epididymitis and orchitis include:

• Abnormal discharge from the tip of the penis
• Burning during urination
• Fever
• Intense pain at the back of one testicle that spreads to the entire testicle, scrotum or groin
• Pain, swelling and tenderness in the scrotum, sometimes accompanied by redness and heat
• Watery fluid in the scrotum

Epididymitis and orchitis are diagnosed based on a complete physical examination and a review of your medical history. If epididymitis or orchitis is suspected, your physician may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis. These include urine tests (urinalysis and urine culture) to rule out or confirm the presence and type of bacteria, and blood tests as well as an ultrasound of the scrotum.

Epididymis caused by sexually transmitted diseases or intestinal bacteria is typically treated with antibiotics. Pre-pubescent boys with epididymitis may be checked for urinary tract infections or conditions. In patients with epididymitis and orchitis, certain at-home measures may relieve discomfort, including:

• Applying cold packs
• Bed rest
• Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water
• Elevating the scrotum
• Taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation