OverviewChronic epididymitis is a long-standing inflammation in the epididymis. The epididymis is a coiled, tube-like structure on the back of the testicle through which sperm pass from the testicle to the urethra to be ejaculated.
What is going on in the body?Chronic epididymitis is an inflammation in the epididymis. Unlike acute epididymitis, chronic epididymitis is not caused by infection. It may be caused by overly sensitive nerves or muscles.
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?Chronic epididymitis causes pain in the scrotum or testicle. The pain may be on one side or both. Pain may be constant or intermittent.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Often, the cause of chronic testicular pain cannot be determined. The risk factors listed here increase a male's risk for chronic epididymitis: past scrotal or groin surgery
repeated bouts of acute epididymitis
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Because the exact cause is not known, prevention is difficult. Preventing acute epididymitis may reduce the risk. Acute epididymitis is often caused by a sexually infection (STI). Safer sex practices can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of STIs. However, some men get chronic epididymitis without having these risk factors.
How is the condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis of chronic epididymitis begins with a history and physical exam. An ultrasound of the scrotum is often done to rule out other conditions.
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HEALTH CENTERS
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