[헬스코리아뉴스 / 안홍점] As the mandatory wearing of masks for the past three years has been lifted from this year, the number of infectious diseases is expected to increase. Representative infectious diseases include influenza, measles, hand, foot and mouth disease, and mumps.
In particular, mumps, which occurs mainly in children and adolescents under the age of 15 as immunity is lowered due to indoor life in winter, requires special attention. Mumps, commonly called mumps, is an acute febrile disease caused by a paramyxovirus infection that spreads through human saliva and often occurs in late winter or spring.
After an incubation period of 2 to 3 weeks, swelling of one or both cheeks, muscle pain, anorexia, headache, fever, and vomiting may accompany symptoms. It is very contagious and in severe cases, complications such as meningitis, oophoritis, or pancreatitis may occur.
What should be noted in this passage is orchitis. This is because orchitis is known to occur in 14% to 35% of patients who have suffered from mumps.
The testes, an endocrine organ located inside the male scrotum, are egg-shaped and produce testosterone, the male hormone, to be secreted into the blood.
Inflammation of the testicles caused by bacteria or viruses such as Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Staphylococcus aureus is called orchitis. In most cases, primary inflammation that occurred in other organs is secondary inflammation that occurs in the testicles.
Orchitis often presents suddenly. Enlarged testicles are the most common symptom. The scrotum becomes red and causes unbearable pain when touched. In severe cases, the pain spreads to the lower abdomen and makes it difficult to walk or sit. In addition, high fever, nausea, chills, and general fatigue may be accompanied.
Most men, including children and adolescents entering the new semester, are reluctant to tell others regarding the pain in the genital area. Hiding and neglecting the pain can cause more serious followingeffects. For example, if orchitis is left untreated, it can lead to testicular atrophy or infertility. If you have symptoms, it is better to visit a medical institution promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
The diagnosis of orchitis is made through a physical examination such as patient interview and palpation, and blood tests, urine tests, testicular injections, and ultrasound tests may be performed to differentiate from other diseases.
Depending on the cause, orchitis is treated with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other medications. If the testicles are severely hot, cold compresses may be applied to relieve symptoms. If the inflammation is severe and an abscess has occurred, surgical treatment such as surgery is required.
Viral orchitis can be prevented through mumps vaccination, so vaccination is recommended. In order to prevent inflammatory diseases, it is necessary to eat fruits and vegetables, and to strengthen immunity, and to exercise regularly. After going out, pay attention to personal hygiene such as washing hands and taking a shower.
For reference, if you have had a urinary tract infection or have had surgery for a genital infection, you are more likely to develop orchitis. [글: 대동병원 안홍점 비뇨기과 전문의]
© Health Korea News Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited
