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Urology  (Expert Forum)
 | 
Epididymitis
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD Boston - MA
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Epididymitis

by jejs, May 10, 2005 12:00AM
I am a white male, 39 years old, and have good health. I was diagnosed with epididymitis on Friday, 5/6/05. Rx was for Cipro, 750 mg 2X daily, and Vicoden for pain. I've had this one time before about 20 years ago, which was a milder case then.



Symptoms were: A really swollen left testicle including the respective epididymis, extreme pain producing nausea and vomitting (one time), chills, etc. I started the Cipro late Friday evening, and things are changing.



First, the pain is reduced. I do not need the Vicodin anymore. The testicle is still swollen but is now getting hard. I assume this has something to do with the fluid/infection coming out. So I have a few questions:



1. Is it normal for the testicle to go from really swollen with fluid around it to just plain swollen and a hard feel?



2. I can feel a pain up my left/front groin area. I think this is coming from the sperm cord. Plus, I have a slight ridge by the scrotum where this cord seems to exit. The sperm cord is a guess, so it could be something different. Anyway, is it normal for that to hurt for a while? It seems to be worse when I stand up.



3. Obviously, I am not thinking about sex at the moment. But, when is it safe again? I don't really want to chance doing some damage and causing a setback.



Thanks,



John

by Kevin Pho, MD, May 11, 2005 12:00AM
To answer your questions:

1) The presentation of epididymitis can vary.  Thus, the description of a swollen testicle or a hard feel can be within the spectrum of disease.



2) Tough to say without examination.  Enlarged inguinal lymph nodes are also a possibility.  If there continues to be pain in that area, you can consider a pelvic CT scan for further imaging.



3) Different for every patient.  However, if there continues to be discomfort in the area, sexual activity may not be a good idea.  You can discuss this question with your personal urologist.



Followup with your personal physician is essential.



This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.



Kevin, M.D.

Medical Weblog:

kevinmd_b
Member Comments

by ThomSEA, Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM
To: Urology - General
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by Testies, Jul 22, 2005 12:00AM
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