Patient discussions
During treatment of epididymitis, supportive patient measures will include bed rest and scrotal elevation until signs of local inflammation or fever have resolved. Analgesics such as acetaminophen may be continued until fever and local inflammation subside. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be of benefit. If patients are systemically ill with signs of sepsis, intravenous fluid replacement and initial intravenous antibiotic therapy may be indicated.
The rapid improvement in symptoms with treatment can lead to treatment nonadherence and recurrence. Patients should be informed of the importance of completing the course of treatment to prevent complications such as infertility due to epididymal obstruction or testicular atrophy.
In cases of sexually transmitted acute epididymitis, it is imperative that patients are educated regarding the transmissibility of the condition and the potential long-term sequelae for them and their partners if the condition remains untreated. The evaluation and treatment of all recent sexual partners is strongly advised. Patients should be advised to avoid sexual intercourse or use condoms until their treatment and that of their sexual partner(s) is completed and/or after symptoms have resolved.[15]
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