Patient's question:
The left testicle has been aching and swollen recently, with a sense of heaviness. Could it be epididymitis? What are the early treatment methods for epididymitis?Doctor's answer:
It is possible that epididymitis is a common disease among young and middle-aged adults. Whenever the body's resistance weakens, pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli, staphylococcus, and streptococcus take the opportunity to enter the vas deferens and reverse into the epididymis, causing inflammation. Therefore, this condition often follows secondary urethritis, prostatitis, and seminal vesiculitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention at a reputable tertiary hospital for follow-up treatment. Rest in bed and using a scrotal support can alleviate symptoms. A specially designed scrotal support with cotton padding is more comfortable to use. For severe pain, pain relievers can be used. Local heat therapy can relieve symptoms and promote inflammation reduction. However, early use of heat therapy may relieve pain but also carry the risk of spreading infection, so local cold compresses with ice packs are recommended in the early stages. Sexual activity and physical labor can exacerbate infection, so they should be avoided.