The epididymis is a small tube that is coiled at the rear section of the testicles. It both carries and stores sperm. When this tube becomes inflamed, it causes a condition known as epididymitis. Men may get this disease through bacterial infection or because of a sexually transmitted disease such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. When epididymitis spreads to inflame the testicles, it can induce a condition named epididymo-orchitis. When epididymitis does not go away completely or recurs, it is considered chronic.
Pain
The most common symptom of chronic epididymitis is pain. A man may feel pain in his testicle on either side, and the pain may increase during defecation or urination. Pain also may occur during sexual intercourse and upon ejaculation. The pain may spread to the man's pelvic or abdominal region, and the scrotum itself also may be tender and painful, the Mayo Clinic reports.
Fever
Although chronic epididymitis is usually caused by bacteria, the man may experience the same symptoms as he would have with a viral illness such as the flu or a cold. These include fever, which may be accompanied by chills.
Lump
The inflammation of chronic epididymitis also may cause a lump to form on the testicle that is affected by the condition. This may or may not be painful in itself, but may also feel painful because of tenderness in the scrotum.
Penis Secretions
Chronic epididymitis may cause the man's penis to produce an unusual discharge. Blood also may appear in the semen upon ejaculation. The Mayo Clinic recommends that these and any signs of chronic epididymitis warrant a consultation with a doctor.
