Orchitis Inflammation of One or Both Testicles

Swelling of the Testicles

Orchitis is an inflammation of the testis that can affect one or both of the testicles. It is usually caused by infection either bacterial or viral.

Causes of orchitis

30% of the cases of orchitis are due to the mumps virus.

Ochitis is common in post pubertal boys but more common in men over 45yrs.

Orchitis may also happen as a result of other infections such as prostatitis, epididymis, or sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea or clamydia.

Men who experience recurrent urinary infections, who have congenital abnormalities of the urinary tract, or those who have an indwelling catheter are also more at risk of getting orchitis.

Signs symptoms orchitis

Swelling and tenderness in the scrotal area and in the testicle or testicles. The affected area feels 'heavy'. Pain in the testicles is often worse when straining or during a bowel movement.

Fever.

Pain when urinating, during sexual intercourse or ejaculation.

Discharge from the penis.[/li
li]Blood in the semen.

Complications from Orchitis

One third of boys who get orchitis from the mumps virus go on to have shrinkage of the one or both of the testicles (testicular atrophy).

Infertility

Scrotal abscess

Scrotal fistula

Testicular infarction (loss or impaired blood supply to the testicle or testicles)

I've had/got orchitis, Will I be OK? Prognosis
It is always difficult to be absolutely certain given the complications that do occur with this illness. With appropriate treatment for bacterial orchitis everything should return to normal

Under what circumstances should I seek treatment for Orchitis?
Orchitis does require medication, for the bacterial strain of the disease or anti-inflammatory for the viral type. You must see a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. You may find pain relief helpful.
If the cause of orchitis is a sexually transmitted disease you and your partner must both be treated.
Occasionally surgical intervention is required.

Emergency treatment of orchitis
If you experience severe pain in the scrotum or in the testicles go to your nearest emergency room.