Inflammation of the Testicles

Learn more about orchitis, inflammation of the testicles, which is often caused by chlamydia.

 

(http://www.prohealthsys.com/physical/genital_exam.php)

 

The testicle is the male generative gland, producing sperm, needed for insemination of female ovum, the result being the embryo. It's composed of numerous seminiferous tubules, which produce sperm cells. Sperm cells are gathered in sperm tubes in the epididymis and from there they travel through a wider tube, a part of seminal tract, through prostate, urethra and then out.

 

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Inflammation of the testicles or orchitis can cause inflammation of epididymis.  This inflammation can be a symptom of Chlamydia, so you must get checked for this sexually transmitted infection.

 

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Orchitis is not as common as epididymitis, but it is serious, since it can cause reduction of the function of generative and sexual glands. In most cases, inflammation is not to be blamed for male infertility, as usually only one testicle gets inflamed, and the other functions normally.

A common cause for childhood orchitis is mumps.

 

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If orchitis is caused by epididymitis, treatment includes taking an antibiotic. Antibiotics are not recommended if the infection is viral - painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pills are used instead (e.g. ibuprofen). Diagnosis and treatment are prescribed by the urologist. If ischemic orchitis isn't treated, it can lead to testicular atrophy, which means that the testicle is diminished in size.

 

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