The epididymis is a tube at the back of testicles that carries and stores the sperm. Epididymitis is a condition in which these coiled tubes get inflamed. The swelling of the epididymis tends to be excruciating and can cause extreme discomfort in men.
Cleveland Clinic states that this condition is most prevalent in men between the ages of 14 to 35. People suffering from epididymitis can experience some other symptoms as well.
Some of them are mentioned below:
- Pain in the pelvic area
- Pain during ejaculation and sexual intercourse
- Pressure/pain in the scrotum
- Blood in semen
- Constant urge to urinate
- Frequent discharge from the penis
- Nausea and headaches
Epididymitis Home Treatment
CURE 1: Home Remedies
1. Cold Compress
The National Center for Biotechnology Information(1) confirms that the sudden and direct application of cold might hurt a little. However, it will alleviate the pain by inhibiting the sensory nerves.
A cold compress lowers the temperature of the body party it is applied to. A reduced blood temperature then helps relieve pain and swelling.
How to Do?
Put an ice pack on the testicles for 15-20 minutes. If you do not have an ice pack, you can put some crushed ice in a plastic bag and use it.
How Much To Do?
Do this every two hours to prevent tissue damage and decrease the pain.
2. Bed Rest
Resting or lying down relaxes the pelvic region and the scrotum. When you are continually standing, the pressure on the scrotum further worsens the swelling. A horizontal position negates the pull of gravity and allows the testicles to relax and reduces the discomfort.
How to Do and How Much?
Place a rolled towel under the scrotum while sleeping. Additionally, do not engage in a strenuous activity when you are suffering from this condition. Try to stay in bed as much as possible throughout the day.
3. Elevation of the Scrotum
When you are not resting, try to use scrotum support while standing. This will control the swelling and ease the symptoms. Studies show that this will make you more comfortable and eliminate the constant pressure on the scrotum.
How to Do?
You can buy scrotal support available in the market. They come in all shapes and sizes, and you can buy the one most appropriate for you.
How often should you use it?
Wear it all the time, except the time when you are relaxing. This will help you combat the condition efficiently.
CURE 2: Herbal Remedies
1. Willow
It is widely used as a pain reliever and is also called the ‘nature’s aspirin.’ It has no side effects and can be used for a variety of conditions.
Studies confirm that due to its organic compounds and antioxidant properties, it works as a natural analgesic. When applied to the aggravated area, it soothes the symptoms and brings down the swelling.
How to Use?
You can apply the liquid form of it on the aggravated area. Otherwise, you can also consume capsules that are available in medical stores. You can also drink willow tea made from willow bark.
How Much to Use?
Try to use it twice a day to control the symptoms of epididymitis.
2. Yarrow
The National Center for Biotechnology Information(2) confirms that yarrow has been extensively used for inflammatory diseases and skin conditions. Yarrow is known to dilate the capillaries and improve blood flow. Also, its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties relieve swelling and discomfort.
How to Use?
You can make a paste out of yarrow powder and apply it to the aggravated area. You can also use the yarrow tincture and herbal tea, which gives out similar results.
How Much to Use?
Use 2-3 ml of tincture two times a day. If using powder, apply it three times a day to see desired results.
[ Read: Benefits of Yarrow ]
3. Pulsatilla
The British Homeopathic Association confirms that Pulsatilla had been able to treat testicle problems in 40% of males after puberty. Antimicrobial and other healing properties help in releasing toxins and reduce inflammation. It also relieves the overstretched and itchy skin due to the swelling.
How to Use and How Much?
It is available in tincture and powder form. You can apply it directly to the aggravated area and leave for 30 minutes before washing with warm water. Apply it twice a day to see the desired results.
CURE 3: Foods
1. Watermelon
Dr. George Mateljan, a nutritionist and biologist, states that watermelon is considered a powerful antioxidant that efficiently combats the disease-causing free radicals in the body. Studies(3) also confirm that watermelons are rich in vitamins A, B1, B6, and C, which are very helpful in treating genital disorders. It brings down the inflammation and also controls the swelling.
How to and how much to use?
Try to eat 2-3 cups of watermelon every day. You can also drink around two glasses of watermelon juice in a day.
[ Read: Benefits of Watermelon ]
2. Cranberry Juice
The American Chemical Society(4) confirms that cranberry juice is widely used for treating urinary tract infections and diseases as it flushes out the bacteria like E.coli from the body. Many other studies have also confirmed that the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of cranberry are very promising and significantly control the symptoms.
How to Use?
You should get fresh cranberries from the market and take out their juice. Avoid canned cranberry juices as they contain preservatives or other chemicals that could aggravate the condition.
How Much to Use?
By drinking 3-4 glasses of cranberry juice every day, you can combat the symptoms of epididymitis.
3. Pumpkin Seeds
The National Center for Biotechnology Information(5) confirms that pumpkin is a natural resource of antioxidant agents which have a protective effect on the human body. Pumpkin seeds are full of valuable nutrients like fiber, magnesium, iron, vitamin K, phosphorus, etc. which help in bringing down the inflammation and improves the overall prostate health.
How to Use?
You can eat them directly or add them to salads. Try to eat 1 ounce of pumpkin seeds every day to promote a healthy prostate gland health.
Prevention Tips
Epididymitis is a stressful condition to deal with. To avoid it from recurring, you can follow some simple steps in your everyday life.
- Always wear a condom during sexual intercourse.
- Do not overexert your body through strenuous physical activities.
- Do not have multiple sexual partners.
- Maintain good hygiene.
Bottom Line
Epididymitis can disrupt everyday life and bring down the mood. Home remedies mentioned above are useful in both treating or preventing the condition. However, if the situation is worse or if you have other health issues, it is a must to consult a doctor as it could be a symptom of some other underlying health condition.
Also Read:
Natural Ways To Treat Blue Balls
Natural Ways To Treat Balanitis
FAQs
1. Can epididymitis go away on its own?
Yes, if it is less severe. A severe condition will require proper treatment.
2. How long does it take to get over epididymitis?
Usually, epididymitis takes up to three months to heal completely.
3. Can epididymitis be passed to a female?
No. It is not a sexually transmitted condition.
