Male reproductive health can be affected by a variety of conditions, and one of them is testicular orchitis. This inflammation in the testicles can cause significant discomfort and, in some cases, compromise fertility. Identifying its symptoms and knowing its causes is essential for a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Orchitis is often caused by viral or bacterial infections, but it can also be caused by other factors. Although it can occur at any age, it is more common in young adult men. Because of its impact on health and fertility, it is important to understand how it manifests itself and what options exist for its management.
What is testicular orchitis?
Testicular orchitis is an inflammation of one or both testicles, usually caused by an infection. It can be viral in origin, as with the mumps virus, or bacterial, in which case it is usually associated with urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.
When inflammation affects both the testicle and the epididymis (the tube where sperm are stored), it is called epididymitis orchiditis. In any of its forms, orchitis can cause intense testicular pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area.
Causes of testicular orchitis
There are several reasons why orchitis can develop. Some of the most common causes include:
- Viral infections: The mumps virus is the most common cause of orchitis in children and adolescents, usually manifesting within a week of swollen salivary glands.
- Bacterial infections: Sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, can lead to orchitis, especially in sexually active men.
- Urinary tract infections: In some cases, bacteria that affect the bladder or urethra can spread to the testicles.
- Trauma or injury: A blow to the testicular area can generate inflammation and symptoms similar to those of infectious orchitis.
- Medical Procedures: Interventions such as urinary catheter placement can increase the risk of infections and, consequently, orchitis.
Symptoms of testicular orchitis
The clinical manifestations of orchitis can vary in intensity and duration. The most common symptoms include:
- Severe testicular pain, which may increase with movement.
- Swelling and redness of the scrotum.
- Feeling of warmth in the affected area.
- Fever and chills, especially in cases of bacterial infection.
- General malaise and fatigue.
- In some cases, abnormal discharge from the urethra.
How is testicular orchitis diagnosed?
The diagnosis of orchitis is made through a series of medical evaluations that allow identifying its origin and ruling out other conditions. These include:
- Physical exam: The size, tenderness, and presence of inflammation in the testicles are checked.
- Urinalysis and urine culture: They can detect bacterial infections in the urinary tract.
- STD Testing: They are done if a sexually transmitted infection is suspected.
- Testicular ultrasound: It helps rule out other conditions, such as testicular torsion or tumors.
How does testicular orchitis affect male fertility?
In some cases, orchitis can have an impact on sperm production and quality, compromising fertility. Prolonged inflammation can damage the cells responsible for sperm production, reduce their motility or even cause a significant decrease in their quantity.
If orchitis occurs in both testicles and is not treated properly, the risk of infertility increases. For this reason, it is essential to see a specialist in the presence of symptoms.
Available Treatments for Testicular Orchitis
Treatment of orchitis depends on its underlying cause. Common options include:
- For viral orchitis: Rest, application of cold compresses and analgesics are recommended to relieve pain and inflammation.
- For bacterial orchitis: Antibiotics are prescribed, along with anti-inflammatories and relief measures such as elevation of the scrotum and application of local cold.
- Medical follow-up: In severe or persistent cases, additional testing may be required to assess the impact on fertility.
Timely diagnosis and proper treatment are key to avoiding long-term complications. At Fertivida, we have male reproductive health specialists who can help evaluate and manage conditions such as testicular orchitis, offering options to preserve male fertility in cases that require it.
