Orchitis

Diagnosis

To diagnose orchitis, your healthcare professional begins by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical examination. The exam typically checks for enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area and an enlarged testicle on the affected side. A rectal exam may also be performed to assess prostate enlargement or tenderness.

Tests that may be used to confirm the diagnosis include:
• STI screen: If there is discharge from the urethra, a swab sample is taken and tested for sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. Some tests can also be done using a urine sample.
• Urine test: A urine sample is analyzed in a lab to rule out bacterial infections.
• Ultrasound: This imaging test helps identify the cause of testicular pain. Using color Doppler ultrasound, healthcare professionals can detect changes in blood flow — reduced flow may indicate testicular torsion, while increased flow may confirm orchitis.

Treatment

Treatment for orchitis depends on the underlying cause, which may be bacterial or viral.

Treating bacterial orchitis
Bacterial orchitis and epididymo-orchitis are treated with antibiotics. If the infection is sexually transmitted, it is important for both you and your partner to receive treatment to prevent reinfection.

• Complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve early.
• The scrotum may remain tender for several weeks or months after treatment.
• Rest, scrotal support with an athletic strap, use of cold packs, and pain-relieving medications can help ease discomfort.

Treating viral orchitis
When orchitis is caused by a virus, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms rather than eliminating an infection.

• Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium after consulting your healthcare provider.
• Rest in bed and elevate the scrotum.
• Apply cold packs to reduce pain and swelling.

Most people with orchitis start to feel better within 3 to 10 days, though tenderness and swelling may last for several weeks or, in some cases, even months.