Inflammation of the testicles, also known as Orchitis,, explored in terms of root causes, characteristic signs, and treatment options.
In the realm of men's health, one condition that requires awareness is orchitis - a swelling of the testicles. This article aims to shed light on this issue, particularly focusing on its connection to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in sexually active adults and teens.
If you, or someone you know, experience symptoms such as fever, pain in one or both testicles, scrotal swelling, a tender, swollen groin area on the affected side, pain during intercourse, ejaculation, or urination, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
When a doctor suspects testicular torsion, a colour doppler ultrasonography may be ordered to rule out this potentially serious condition. However, if orchitis is the diagnosis, treatment typically involves antibiotics targeting bacterial infections, such as those caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea), which are the primary STI culprits causing orchitis in sexually active individuals under 35 [1][5].
It's important to note that Chlamydia often causes a silent infection that can travel to the testicles and cause inflammation, while gonorrhea causes urethritis and may progress to epididymo-orchitis [3]. Other bacterial causes of orchitis include urinary tract infections, prostate infections, and STIs like syphilis, although these are less associated with STIs and more with urinary tract-related infections, particularly in older men or those with bladder outlet obstruction [3].
Viral orchitis is less common but can be caused by viruses such as mumps, varicella, cytomegalovirus, coxsackievirus, or echovirus. Mumps is the most common viral cause, affecting about 30% of post-puberty individuals with the virus [3][5].
If you notice swelling in your testicle without pain, it's essential to seek medical attention to rule out testicular cancer. Orchitis can be acute or chronic, but it usually resolves within 2 weeks. Treatment for orchitis can vary depending on the cause, with common options including pain and anti-inflammatory medications, bed rest, and ice packs [4].
Prevention is key. Practicing safer sex, including limiting the number of sexual partners, wearing condoms, and getting the MMR vaccination, can help reduce the risk of orchitis. Immunocompromised individuals may be at risk from other bacteria such as Cryptococcus neoformans, Toxoplasma gondii, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Candida albicans, Mycobacterium avium complex [2].
In conclusion, orchitis can be a concerning condition, but with awareness and prompt medical attention, it can be effectively managed. For sexually active adults and teens, practising safe sex and getting vaccinated against common viruses like mumps can significantly reduce the risk of developing orchitis.
- In the realm of men's health, orchitis - a swelling of the testicles - is a condition that mandates awareness, especially for its connection to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in sexually active adults and teens.
- When someone experiences symptoms such as fever, pain in one or both testicles, scrotal swelling, a tender, swollen groin area on the affected side, pain during intercourse, ejaculation, or urination, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
- A diagnosis of orchitis typically involves treatment with antibiotics targeting bacterial infections, such as those caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which are primary STI culprits in sexually active individuals under 35.
- Other bacterial causes of orchitis include urinary tract infections, prostate infections, and STIs like syphilis, although these are less associated with STIs and more with urinary tract-related infections.
- Viral orchitis is less common but can be caused by viruses such as mumps, varicella, cytomegalovirus, coxsackievirus, or echovirus, with mumps being the most common viral cause.
- If swelling in the testicle is noticed without pain, it's essential to seek medical attention to rule out testicular cancer and other chronic diseases.
- Practising safer sex, including limiting the number of sexual partners, wearing condoms, and getting the MMR vaccination, can help reduce the risk of orchitis.
- Immunocompromised individuals may be at risk from other bacteria such as Cryptococcus neoformans, Toxoplasma gondii, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Candida albicans, Mycobacterium avium complex, highlighting the importance of maintaining overall health and wellness, including mental health and men's health, to prevent complications.
