Patient's question:
Two weeks ago, after a sexual encounter, I experienced right testicular pain again. Upon touching, it accompanied pressure, and there was referred pain in the scrotum, groin, and inguinal region. There is a tendency for it to improve. I went to the hospital for a careful ultrasound examination and was diagnosed with acute epididymitis and orchitis. How long is the treatment usually needed for chronic epididymitis?Doctor's answer:
Generally, using a scrotal support can alleviate symptoms for bedridden patients. A specially designed scrotal support with cotton padding is more comfortable when used for a longer period. For severe pain, pain relief measures can be used. Local heat therapy can relieve symptoms and promote inflammation reduction. However, using heat therapy too early can relieve pain but may also increase the risk of infection spread, so early use is recommended for local cold compresses with ice packs. Sexual activity and physical labor can exacerbate transmission, so they should be avoided. The use of antimicrobial drugs depends on the sensitivity to bacteria. Typically, intravenous administration is used for 1-2 weeks, followed by oral antimicrobial drugs for 2-4 weeks to prevent the condition from becoming chronic. Surgical treatment is considered if antibiotic therapy is ineffective and there is testicular edema. In such cases, epididymal incision and drainage should be performed in a longitudinal or transverse manner, without excessive incision of the tunica vaginalis, but care must be taken to avoid damaging the epididymal ducts.