Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, which is a coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. It can cause swelling, pain, and discomfort in the testicle area. Epididymitis is most often caused by a bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Other infections, including the mumps virus and rarely, tuberculosis, can also cause epididymitis. Urine in the epididymis can also cause epididymitis. Symptoms of epididymitis may include:
- Swelling or pain in the back of the testicle in the coiled tube (epididymis) that stores and carries sperm
- Painful urination or ejaculation
- Discharge from the penis
- Blood in the semen
- Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
Epididymitis is usually treated with antibiotics, and the most common medications include doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Antibiotic treatment usually lasts about one to two weeks. People with epididymitis can also relieve their symptoms by:
- Resting in bed
- Applying ice packs to the affected area
- Wearing an athletic supporter[[1]](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epididymitis/symptoms-causes/s...
