Treating Epididymitis and Orchitis

You have inflammation of the epididymis (epididymitis) and testicle (orchitis). This is likely due to an infection. In many cases, epididymitis and orchitis occur along with urinary tract infections. Treatment includes medicine to get rid of the infection. It also includes medicine and other methods to relieve symptoms.

Possible treatments

• Antibiotics. Acute epididymitis is most often treated with oral antibiotics. You may also be given an injection of antibiotics. Be sure to take all of your medicine until it is gone, even if you feel better.

• Anti-inflammatories. You may be prescribed medicine to reduce swelling and tenderness.

• Rest. You will most likely need to rest for 3 to 4 days until swelling and fever are gone. When you are able, lie down with a towel folded under the scrotum to raise it slightly. This can help relieve discomfort.

• Scrotal support. If your testicles are swollen, wear an athletic supporter (jockstrap) or spandex shorts. This may help control swelling and ease symptoms.

• Ice and heat. To relieve swelling, use an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel on the scrotum. Once swelling is gone, sit in a warm bath to increase blood flow to the area.

After treatment

The inflammation will go away with treatment. But you may have an achy feeling in the testicles for 2 to 4 weeks. This does not mean the infection has come back. The testicles just take time to heal. But if you feel a lump in a testicle after treatment, see your doctor. Once the inflammation is gone, you can be active again.