Acute Epididymitis

Alternate Names : Epididymitis, Epididymo-Orchitis

What can be done to prevent the disease?

Avoidance of the risk factors mentioned above can reduce the risk of epididymitis. When early treatment is given for infection of the bladder or urethra, epididymitis can often be avoided. Symptoms of these two conditions may include frequent and painful urination. A burning sensation in the penis during urination, unusually strong urges to urinate and fever can also occur. If these symptoms occur, affected persons are advised to see a healthcare provider. Unfortunately, infections of the urethra and bladder sometimes cause no symptoms. Epididymitis is difficult to prevent in these cases.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Untreated, this disease can destroy the epididymitis or the testicle. An abscess, or pocket of pus, can also form in the scrotum. The infection could even spread throughout the body and be life threatening. Even after successful treatment, there is a risk of chronic epididymitis and chronic pain.

What are the risks to others?

Epididymitis itself is not generally contagious. However, those with epididymitis may have a sexually transmitted disease that is contagious.