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

Audience: pediatric

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. In children and adolescents, it often causes pain and swelling in the scrotum. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess symptoms and decide if urgent care is needed. Before the visit, gather information about your child's symptoms, such as when the pain started, if there is fever, or any injury. During the visit, the provider may ask questions and guide you to show the affected area carefully without causing discomfort. Telemedicine can help with initial assessment and advice but cannot replace physical exams or tests that may be needed. If your child has severe pain, redness, fever, or sudden swelling, seek emergency care immediately. Preparing well for the video visit helps your provider give the best advice and plan next steps safely.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or sudden testicular pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with scrotal swelling — get urgent medical attention.
• Redness, warmth, or rapid swelling of the scrotum — requires prompt evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking.
• Visual inspection of swelling or redness via video.
• Providing advice on symptom monitoring and home care.
• Determining urgency for in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination including palpation.
• Diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or urine tests.
• Emergency treatment for severe pain or infection.
• Prescribing certain medications without prior in-person evaluation.

What is Epididymitis?

Epididymitis is swelling and irritation of the epididymis, the tube behind the testicle that carries sperm. It can cause pain and swelling in the scrotum. In children and teens, it often happens because of infections or injury.

Signs and Symptoms to Note

Common signs include:

Keep track of when symptoms started and if they are getting worse.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit allows the healthcare provider to:

This helps decide if your child needs urgent in-person care or can be managed at home initially.

What Telemedicine Cannot Do

Telemedicine cannot:

If serious symptoms are present, in-person care is necessary.

Preparing for the Video Visit

Before the visit:

After the Video Visit

Follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Have your child's medical history and symptom details ready.
• Note the start time and progression of symptoms.
• Prepare to gently show the affected area if needed.
• List any questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Administer prescribed medications as directed.
• Schedule follow-up appointments or tests if recommended.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

What causes epididymitis in children?

Epididymitis in children is often caused by infections, including urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted infections in adolescents. It can also result from injury or irritation.

Can epididymitis be treated at home?

Mild cases may improve with rest, pain relief, and applying ice. However, it's important to have a healthcare provider evaluate your child to decide the best care and if antibiotics are needed.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

If your child has sudden, severe testicular pain, high fever, or rapid swelling and redness of the scrotum, seek emergency care immediately. These signs may indicate a serious condition requiring urgent treatment.

Will my child need tests during an in-person visit?

Yes. A healthcare provider may order tests like an ultrasound to check blood flow or urine tests to identify infection. These cannot be done during a video visit.

Is epididymitis contagious?

Epididymitis itself is not contagious, but some infections causing it, such as sexually transmitted infections, can be spread to others. Proper diagnosis and treatment are important.

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 in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned, seek immediate medical attention.