Epididymitis (ep-uh-di-duh-MY-tiss) refers to swelling and inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube at the back of the testicle that holds and carries sperm. More to Know The most common cause of epididymitis is an infection, sometimes a sexually transmitted disease (STD) (also called sexually transmitted infection or STI) like chlamydia. Urinary tract abnormalities, procedures, and infections also can lead to epididymitis. Symptoms can include swelling; pain; redness; a heavy sensation of the scrotum; fever; discharge; and pain with urination, defecation, or ejaculation. In addition to a physical exam, the doctor might have done urine tests, blood tests, an ultrasound or other imaging study, and/or a swab of the urethra in order to diagnose epididymitis. Keep in Mind Epididymitis usually gets better with antibiotic treatment and rest. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the condition, but usually involves antibiotics to treat an infection, as well as rest, elevation, and icing of the scrotum. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Chlamydia Chlamydia is an STD that often has no symptoms, so lots of people can have it and not know it. Read this article to learn how to protect yourself. Read More Ultrasound: Scrotum Doctors order a scrotal ultrasound when they're concerned about symptoms such as scrotal pain or swelling. Read More Undescended Testicles Shortly before birth, a boy's testicles usually descend into the scrotum. When a testicle doesn't make the move, this is called cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles. Read More Testicular Injuries Serious testicular injuries are relatively uncommon, but testicular injury can be painful. Read this to find out what steps you can take to protect yourself from injury. Read More Testicular Exams If you're a guy, you may be wondering why the doctor needs to do a testicular exam. Find out in this article. Read More How to Do a Testicular Self-Exam (Slideshow) The testicular self-examination (TSE) is an easy way for guys to check their own testicles to make sure there aren't any unusual lumps or bumps - which are usually the first sign of testicular cancer. Read More Varicocele A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins in the scrotum. Although there is no way to prevent a varicocele, it usually needs no special treatment. Read More Male Reproductive System Understanding the male reproductive system and what it does can help you better understand your son's reproductive health. Read More Male Reproductive System What makes up a guy's reproductive system and how does it develop? Find the answers to these questions and more. Read More Testicular Torsion This emergency condition causes extreme genital pain and usually requires surgery to save a boy's testicle. If your son has groin pain, get him to a doctor right away. Read More Testicular Torsion This emergency condition happens when the spermatic cord gets twisted and cuts off blood supply, causing pain and swelling. Find out what to do in this article for teens. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.