Epididymitis in Korea

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube located at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. This condition can cause significant pain and discomfort, and it affects men of all ages. In Korea, epididymitis is primarily treated with antibiotics, with the specific cause guiding the treatment approach.

Prevalence & Causes in Korea

Epididymitis is a common cause of acute scrotal pain in men. Its causes vary by age and risk factors:

• Younger Men (<35): In sexually active younger men, epididymitis is most often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
• Older Men (≥35) & Children: In older men, especially those with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or urinary tract issues, and in children, non-STI bacteria (e.g., E. coli) from the urinary tract are common culprits.
• Other Causes: Less common causes include viral infections (like mumps), trauma, certain medications, or the backward flow of urine.

Symptoms typically include:

• Gradual onset of pain and tenderness in one testicle, often with swelling.
• Redness and warmth in the scrotum.
• Fever (less common but possible).
• Urinary symptoms (e.g., painful urination, frequent urge to urinate) or penile discharge if caused by an STI.

Common Management & Treatment

Treatment in Korea focuses on eliminating the infection and relieving symptoms.

• Antibiotics: This is the primary treatment. The choice of antibiotic depends on the suspected cause (STI vs. urinary tract bacteria) and the patient's age. Treatment duration is typically 10 days or more.
• For suspected STIs: Often a combination of injectable and oral antibiotics.
• For non-STI causes: Oral antibiotics targeting common urinary pathogens.
• Supportive Care: Important for symptom relief. This includes:
• Bed Rest: Especially during the acute phase.
• Scrotal Elevation: Using a scrotal support or by placing a pillow between the legs while lying down.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Cold Compresses: To reduce swelling and pain.
• Partner Treatment: If the cause is an STI, sexual partners must also be evaluated and treated to prevent re-infection.
• Follow-up: Patients are advised to follow up if symptoms don't improve within 72 hours, as other conditions (like testicular torsion, a medical emergency) need to be ruled out.

Korean Guidelines

Korean medical guidelines for epididymitis are consistent with international best practices:

• Thorough Diagnosis: Emphasize differentiating epididymitis from other causes of scrotal pain, especially testicular torsion, which requires emergency surgery. This often involves physical examination, urinalysis, and sometimes scrotal ultrasound.
• Targeted Antibiotic Therapy: Recommendations for specific antibiotic regimens based on patient age, sexual history, and suspected pathogens.
• STI Screening: Encourage testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea in sexually active men.
• Supportive Measures: Highlight the importance of rest, scrotal elevation, and pain management.
• Patient Education: Advise on completing the full course of antibiotics and preventing future infections.

Key Takeaways for Your Epididymitis Journey in Korea

To summarize the essential points about Epididymitis management in Korea:

• Common Cause of Scrotal Pain: Often bacterial, with causes varying by age.
• Antibiotic Treatment: Primary treatment involves specific antibiotics based on the likely cause.
• Supportive Care: Rest, scrotal elevation, and pain relief are crucial for recovery.
• Early Diagnosis is Key: Prompt medical evaluation is vital to rule out serious conditions.

We hope this guide clarifies Epididymitis management in Korea. Always consult a qualified medical professional for personalized advice, diagnosis, and treatment.