what causes orchitis

Orchitis is usually caused by bacterial infection, viral infection, trauma, retrograde spread of urinary tract infection, and immune factors. Orchitis mainly manifests as scrotal redness, swelling and pain, fever, discomfort during urination and other symptoms, which can be relieved by antibiotic treatment, antiviral treatment, bed rest, scrotal elevation, and analgesic drugs.

1. Bacterial infection

Bacterial orchitis is mostly caused by retrograde infection through the urethra by pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Patients may experience redness and tenderness of the scrotal skin, accompanied by systemic symptoms such as chills and high fever. Antibiotics such as levofloxacin tablets and cefixime dispersible tablets are commonly used in clinical treatment. At the same time, cold compress on the scrotum is required to relieve swelling. Orchitis caused by bacterial infection may develop into testicular abscess if not treated promptly.

2. Viral infection

Mumps virus is the main pathogen causing viral orchitis, which is more common in post-pubertal males. Testicular pain and swelling usually occur after parotid gland swelling, which may be accompanied by headache and fatigue. Treatment is mainly bed rest. You can use ibuprofen sustained-release capsules as directed by your doctor to relieve pain. In severe cases, interferon injection is required. Viral orchitis may affect spermatogenesis and requires close observation.

3. Traumatic factors

Traumatic orchitis may result from external forces such as impact and squeezing of the testicles. It manifests as sudden severe pain, congestion and swelling of the scrotum, which may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. You need to stop activities immediately and wrap an ice pack in a towel to apply cold compress. If the pain is severe, you can take celecoxib capsules for a short period of time. If testicular rupture occurs, emergency surgery is required to repair it. Wearing protective equipment during exercise can effectively prevent traumatic orchitis.

4. Spread of urinary tract infection

When urinary system infections such as cystitis and prostatitis are not controlled in time, pathogens may retrogradely infect the testicles through the vas deferens. Such patients usually have symptoms of frequent urination and urgency, followed by a feeling of bloated testicles. Treatment requires antibiotics with a high concentration in the prostate, such as tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules, and drinking more water to promote urination. Patients with chronic prostatitis are more likely to have recurrent orchitis.

5. Autoimmune abnormalities

A small number of orchitis is related to an autoimmune reaction, in which the body produces anti-sperm antibodies to attack testicular tissue. It manifests as chronic swelling and pain in both testicles and decreased semen quality. Immunological examination is required to confirm the diagnosis. Prednisone acetate tablets can be used for short-term treatment to control inflammation. In severe cases, immunosuppressants need to be considered. Such patients should avoid behaviors that compress the testicles, such as overexertion and long-term riding.

Patients with orchitis should wear loose cotton underwear to avoid friction. When bedridden in the acute stage, a folded towel can be used to hold up the scrotum to reduce the feeling of swelling. Eat a light diet, consume more citrus fruits rich in vitamin C and high-quality protein such as fish, and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Sexual intercourse and strenuous exercise are prohibited during the recovery period. If high fever persists or pain worsens, immediate follow-up is required. Pay attention to cleaning the perineum at ordinary times, and wipe it from front to back after urinating to prevent urinary tract infection from spreading to the testicles.