Testicular infections: private urology care in London

Infection of the testicle (orchitis) or the epididymis (epididymitis) causes pain, swelling, and often a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. The two conditions frequently occur together, known as epididymo-orchitis. Early assessment and the right antibiotic matter. Mr Vinod Nargund offers prompt private consultation, diagnostic testing, and a clear treatment plan.

Epididymitis and orchitis

• Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. Most cases are caused by bacterial infection.
• Orchitis is inflammation of the testicle itself. It can be caused by bacterial infection spreading from the epididymis, or in less common cases by a viral infection such as mumps.

Both can come on over hours or days and are often mistaken for other causes of scrotal pain. A proper assessment is important, partly to rule out testicular torsion, which is a surgical emergency.

Common causes

• Urinary tract bacteria, more common in older men, often linked to a recent urinary tract infection or prostate issue.
• Sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhoea, more common in men under 40.
• Mumps, a less common viral cause of orchitis.
• Post-surgical or post-catheter infection, occasionally following urological procedures.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness in one testicle or the epididymis, sometimes spreading to the groin.
• Swelling, warmth, or redness in the scrotum.
• Fever, chills, or a feeling of being generally unwell.
• Burning on passing urine, or increased frequency.
• Discharge from the penis in sexually transmitted cases.

Sudden severe pain, especially with nausea or vomiting, needs immediate A&E assessment to rule out torsion.

Diagnosis

• Careful examination to localise the pain and check for other causes.
• Scrotal ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and check blood flow.
• Urine testing to look for bacteria and inflammatory markers.
• Sexually transmitted infection screening where appropriate.
• Blood tests if there are signs of systemic infection.

Treatment

• Antibiotics, chosen to match the likely cause. A full course must be completed, even once the pain settles.
• Anti-inflammatory medication and scrotal support to manage pain and swelling.
• Rest and avoidance of heavy lifting in the first few days.
• Partner testing and treatment where an STI is the cause.
• Follow-up ultrasound if the swelling does not fully settle, to confirm resolution and exclude any other cause.

Why early treatment matters

Untreated testicular infection can lead to an abscess, long-term pain, or in rare cases to reduced fertility. Early diagnosis and the correct antibiotic usually result in a full recovery.

See also our testicular pain page for broader information on causes of scrotal pain, and our male infertility page if you are concerned about fertility after an infection.

Why patients choose Mr Nargund

• Prompt access to a consultant urologist rather than a long wait for an NHS clinic.
• Clear diagnosis, usually within a single appointment.
• Follow-through from diagnosis to resolution, including fertility advice where relevant.

Book a testicular infection consultation