Orchitis
Orchitis refers to the inflammation of one or both testicles, often caused by infection or viral illnesses.
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Causes
1. Viral Infections:
Mumps Virus: The most common cause of orchitis, especially in post-pubertal males.
Other viral infections such as rubella and Coxsackievirus.
2. Bacterial Infections:
Often due to urinary tract infections (UTIs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea.
Epididymo-orchitis: When the inflammation spreads from the epididymis.
3. Non-Infectious Causes:
Trauma or injury to the testicle.
Autoimmune orchitis (rare).
4. Risk Factors:
Lack of mumps vaccination.
Frequent UTIs or structural abnormalities in the urinary tract.
Engaging in unprotected sex.
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Signs and Symptoms
1. Testicular Pain: Sudden or gradual onset of pain in one or both testicles.
2. Swelling: Enlargement of the affected testicle(s).
3. Tenderness: Pain when touching the scrotum or during movement.
4. Redness and Warmth: The scrotal skin may appear red and feel warm.
5. Fever and Chills: Often accompany severe cases.
6. Nausea and Vomiting.
7. Painful Urination (Dysuria): If linked to bacterial infection.
8. Abnormal Discharge: Urethral discharge in cases caused by STIs.
9. Ejaculation Pain or Blood in Semen (rare).
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Effects
If untreated, orchitis can lead to:
1. Testicular Atrophy: Shrinking of the testicle, potentially permanent.
2. Infertility: Especially if both testicles are affected (bilateral orchitis).
3. Chronic Pain: Prolonged discomfort in the scrotum.
4. Abscess Formation: Collection of pus in the testicle.
5. Spread of Infection: In severe cases, infection may spread to other parts of the body, leading to sepsis.
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Solutions
1. Medications:
Antibiotics: For bacterial orchitis (e.g., ceftriaxone or doxycycline for STIs, fluoroquinolones for UTIs).
Pain Relievers: NSAIDs like ibuprofen to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Antiviral Medication: If orchitis is caused by a viral infection (though specific antiviral treatment is rare).
2. Supportive Care:
Rest and scrotal elevation to relieve pressure.
Ice packs applied intermittently to reduce swelling and pain.
Adequate hydration.
3. Surgery (Rare cases):
Drainage of abscesses if present.
Orchiectomy (removal of the affected testicle) in extreme cases where the testis is non-viable.
4. Prevention:
Vaccination: Mumps vaccine (part of the MMR vaccine) is crucial in preventing mumps orchitis.
Practice safe sex to avoid STIs.
Seek prompt treatment for UTIs and epididymitis.
If you suspect orchitis, seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.
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