How to Care for Your Child with Epididymitis

This leaflet will provide you with information about epididymitis causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and home care advice

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Epididymitis

What is epididymitis?

The epididymis is a small tube structure that sits on top and back of the testicle.

The scrotum is the bag of skin around the testicles.
                                   
Epididymitis is an infection of this tube structure (epididymis) that can cause swelling and pain of the scrotum.

What are the symptoms of epididymitis?

Symptoms of epididymis include:

  • Sudden or gradual pain in one or both testicles
  • Swelling of the scrotum or testicles
  • Redness of the scrotum
  • Fever
  • Burning sensation when passing urine

How is epididymitis diagnosed?

The doctor will ask few questions about your child’s health and examine your child. Your doctor will decide if further investigation or blood tests are required.
Some investigation may include:

  • Urine test
  • Blood test
  • Ultrasound scan – not required in all cases

How is epididymitis treated?

Treatment depends on the cause of your child condition, usually involves antibiotics and pain medicines to treat the infection. Other measures can help as well like:

  • Rest
  • Elevation of the scrotum can be done by scrotal support or by simply placing a towel under his scrotum to elevate
  • Put a cold gel pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen vegetables on the area for 15 minutes every 2-4 hours,

Home care advice

  • If your child was given antibiotics, make sure he takes the full course as directed,
  • even if he is feeling better in a few days.
  • If your doctor advises giving pain medicine, you can give
    • Paracetamol (any brand) or Ibuprofen (any brand)   
    • Follow the instruction on the medicine package for the correct dose for your child
    • Do not give your child Aspirin as this can cause serious complications
  • If your son was given a scrotal support device, have him use it as instructed.
  • Apply ice wrapped in a thin towel to the area for 15–20 minutes every 3–4 hours to reduce swelling.
  • Ensure you attend all follow-up clinic appointments as instructed            

When to seek medical advice?

Seek medical advice if your child

  • Did not improve after 48 hrs of starting the treatment
  • Develop new symptoms or getting worse                                         

When to go to the Emergency Department?

Go to the Emergency Department if:

your son develops sudden acute severe pain in the scrotal area