Orchitis is an inflammation or infection of the testicle, often caused by a virus or bacteria. Symptoms of orchitis include pain, swelling, or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
Orchitis can occur in men who get mumps, influenza, or tuberculosis. Sexually transmitted infections may also cause orchitis.
Pain and swelling in the scrotum should be evaluated by a doctor. Treatment of orchitis caused by bacteria includes antibiotics. Orchitis caused by a virus, such as mumps, is treated with rest and pain medicine.
Current as of: May 28, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP – Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine & David Messenger, BSc, MD, FRCPC, FCCP – Emergency Medicine, Critical Care Medicine