How to prepare for a video visit about Epididymitis (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: adult

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. It often causes pain and swelling in the scrotum. If you suspect you have epididymitis, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess your symptoms and guide next steps. During the visit, your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent infections or activities that might have contributed. They may also examine your scrotum visually through the video and discuss possible tests or treatments. Preparing well for your video visit can help make it efficient and effective. Remember, while telemedicine can help with initial evaluation and advice, some cases may require in-person care or urgent attention, especially if symptoms worsen or you have severe pain or fever.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden, severe testicular pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with chills — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Rapidly increasing swelling or redness of the scrotum — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking.
• Visual inspection of scrotal swelling or redness via video.
• Providing advice on symptom management and home care.
• Determining need for further testing or in-person evaluation.
• Prescribing medications when appropriate after evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical palpation or detailed physical exam.
• Conducting laboratory tests or imaging studies.
• Managing surgical emergencies such as testicular torsion.
• Providing immediate emergency care for severe symptoms.

What is Epididymitis?

Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis, the coiled tube behind each testicle that stores and transports sperm. It often causes pain, swelling, and tenderness in the scrotum. The condition can be caused by infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or other factors like urinary tract infections or injury. Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit allows your healthcare provider to learn about your symptoms, review your medical history, and visually assess your scrotum for swelling or redness. They can advise on whether you need tests, such as urine tests or imaging, and discuss treatment options. Telemedicine can provide timely guidance without the need to travel to a clinic immediately.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

To get the most from your video visit:

What to Expect During the Visit

Your provider will ask detailed questions about your pain, swelling, fever, urinary symptoms, and sexual history. They may ask you to show your scrotum on camera to look for visible signs of inflammation. Based on this, they will suggest next steps, which might include laboratory tests or an in-person exam if needed.

When to Seek Immediate Care

If you experience sudden, severe testicular pain, high fever, nausea, vomiting, or swelling that progresses quickly, seek emergency care immediately. These symptoms may indicate testicular torsion or a serious infection requiring urgent treatment.

After Your Video Visit

Follow your provider's instructions carefully. This may include taking prescribed medications, resting, applying ice packs, and avoiding heavy lifting or sexual activity until symptoms improve. Monitor your symptoms and report any worsening or new signs promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, well-lit space for your video visit.
• Test your device's camera and internet connection beforehand.
• Prepare a list of your symptoms, including onset and severity.
• Have information ready about recent sexual activity or infections.
• List current medications and any allergies.
• Have a flashlight or good lighting available to show affected areas if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Take prescribed medications as directed by your provider.
• Rest and avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting.
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling if advised.
• Monitor your symptoms closely for improvement or worsening.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Seek emergency care if you develop severe pain, high fever, or rapid swelling.

FAQs

What causes epididymitis?

Epididymitis is often caused by bacterial infections, including sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea. It can also result from urinary tract infections or injury to the groin area.

Can epididymitis be treated through a video visit?

A video visit can help your provider assess your symptoms and decide if you need medications or further tests. However, some cases may require an in-person exam or urgent care.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after the video visit?

If you experience worsening pain, swelling, fever, or new symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek emergency care if symptoms are severe.

Is epididymitis contagious?

If caused by a sexually transmitted infection, epididymitis can be contagious. It’s important to follow your provider’s advice about treatment and sexual activity to prevent spreading infection.

How long does it take to recover from epididymitis?

Recovery time varies but often improves within a few days to weeks with proper treatment. Rest and following medical advice are important for recovery.

Sources

1. Epididymitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Epididymitis and Orchitis — Mayo Clinic.
3. Epididymitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Epididymitis: Diagnosis and Management — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, seek immediate medical attention.