Orchitis

Orchitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of one or both testicles due to infection or an underlying condition. Most often, it is due to bacterial infections like sexually transmitted infections (STI). 

Symptoms of Orchitis

Orchitis develops due to the following:

• Viral infection: The most common cause of viral orchitis is the mumps virus. It typically affects boys and men who have not been vaccinated. It often appears 4 to 6 days following the mumps.
• Bacterial infection: Most commonly, this condition is caused by bacterial infections from sexually transmitted infections (STI) such as syphilis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea.
• Non-STI bacteria include E.coli, Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus.
• You can also have this condition along with epididymitis or prostate infection. 

Risk factors for sexually transmitted orchitis include:

• Multiple sexual partners
• Engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors
• Sexual partner with a diagnosed STI
• Personal history of gonorrhea or another STI

Symptoms of Orchitis

Symptoms include:

·      Pain in the testicles and groin area

·      Swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area

Other symptoms may include:

·      Fever

·      Chills

·      Discharges from penis

·      Groin pain

·      Blood in the semen

·      Pain with intercourse or ejaculation

Risk Factors and Complications

Orchitis can cause infertility when left untreated. Other complications include:

• Testicular atrophy or shrinking of the testicles, which can lead to infertility.
• Death of testicle tissue
• Scrotal abscess
• Chronic epididymis

Orchitis Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be used to manage the pain and reduce fever.

Bacterial orchitis is treated with:

·      Anti-inflammatory medications

·      Antibiotics

·      Cold packs

There’s no cure for viral orchitis, but the condition will go away on its own. In the meantime, you might try these home remedies to relieve your symptoms. This includes:

·      Taking pain medicines like Ibuprofen or Naproxen.

·      Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

·      Elevating the testicles with snug-fitting briefs.

Avoid sexual intercourse and heavy lifting when treating orchitis. If you have an STI, your companion will also need treatment.

Orchitis Prevention

There are several things you may do to reduce your risk of getting this condition. Here are some ways to prevent orchitis:

• Practice safe sex. Use condoms and get tested regularly for STIs to help reduce the risk of bacterial orchitis.
• Get vaccinated. Vaccination against mumps can help prevent viral orchitis.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent dehydration, which can increase the risk of bacterial infections.
• Avoid high-risk sexual behavior. Engaging in high-risk sexual behavior can increase the risk of STIs and bacterial infections. This includes having multiple sexual partners or unprotected sex.
• Check your prostate during your annual physical if you are over 50.

Orchitis is an inflammation of one or both testicles. This condition can happen due to bacterial or viral infections. If you experience symptoms of this condition, such as pain and swelling in the testicles, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.