The epididymis is an extended cordlike structure over the length of the posterior border of the testis. This cordlike structure is the carrier of matured spermatozoa to the vas deferense the tube that is cut during a vasectomy procedure to prevent the mixing of the sperm with the ejaculatory fluid. Epididymitis happens when there is an inflammation of the epididymis.

Epididymitis which is describe as an inflammation of the epididymis is usually the cause of a bacterial infection. This bacterium commonly gets through the epididymis by the urethra. Eighty percent of epididymitis has been identified to have the same bacteria. This disease can be caused by two different groups of organisms, coliforms; organisms found in the intestines and organism that are sexually transmitted. Younger men 35 years down with epididymitis are usually caused by sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and Chlamydia. From nearly 50% to 60% cases of epididymitis are caused by Chlamydia. Older men 35 years up with epididymitis are usually those who involve themselves in anal intercourse, giving them coliforms that cause the disease and which is also responsible for bladder infections. The rarest form of this disease is called chemical epididymitis which happens when there’s a backward flow of the urine during sexual intercourse or exercises with a full bladder.

Symptoms of epididymitis are usually felt within 24 hours but starts gradually. The pain will start from the lower back of your body and to your groin. The reason for this is the gradual descent of the inflammation from the vas deferens through your epididymis. Immediate pain and swelling of the scrotal area will take place. The degree of the swelling is usually variable but the swelling of the epididymis can often grow twice its normal size in the span of 3 to 4 hours. Painful urination will be experienced; urethral discharge can be seen at the tip of the penis of men younger than 35 years of age. Fever, chills, and nausea are also experienced.

When you’re experiencing one or two of these symptoms, it will be best to suggest a visit to a professional health care provider. Epididymitis can only be treated with antibiotics but if the doctor suggest an alternative diagnosis or concerned about complications, you will be recommended to have further test and be sent to a hospital.

Epididymytis is treatable, but the treatment will depend on the stage of the disease or the cause by it. If the epididymitis is caused by a bacterial infection it has to be treated by antibiotics and if caused by sexually transmitted disease such as Chlamydia therefore to make it go away Chlamydia has to be treated first. To relieve the swelling you should have bed rest or you can put ice pack on it. You can also take medication for the pain such as analgesic drugs and also aspirin to control the inflammation and the swelling. In rare cases where the stage of the disease is already higher surgery is already required to drain the abscess of fluid.

This disease is really not too serious. Epididymitis can be treated and corrected through appropriate medication without leaving permanent damages to your epididymis and your scrotum.