Disease Comparison
Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.
Genital Herpes
Moderate
3
Symptoms
1
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS
Epididymitis
Moderate
3
Symptoms
1
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
Overview
Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by herpes simplex virus, usually HSV-2 or HSV-1. It can cause painful blisters, sores, or ulcers around the genitals, anus, or nearby skin, although many infected people have mild or unrecognized symptoms. After infection, the virus remains in the body and can reactivate, causing recurrent outbreaks. Symptoms and recurrence patterns vary between individuals.
Epididymitis
Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis, the tube that carries sperm from the testicle toward the vas deferens. It commonly causes pain and swelling in the scrotum and may also cause urinary symptoms or fever. Infection is the most common cause, although medicines and other conditions can occasionally contribute.
Symptoms
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Breast Lump Eye Pain Sudden WeaknessOnly in Right Disease
Fever Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Irregular PeriodsCauses
Shared
InfectionOnly in Left Disease
None
Only in Right Disease
None
Diagnosis
Genital Herpes
Diagnosis may be based on the appearance and location of characteristic genital lesions together with the person’s symptoms and sexual history. When lesions are present, a swab from a fresh lesion can be tested using molecular methods to detect herpes simplex virus. Blood tests may be useful in selected circumstances, particularly when there are no lesions but a specific clinical question about previous infection needs to be addressed.
Epididymitis
Diagnosis is based on symptoms and physical examination, including assessment of the scrotum and testicles. Urine and blood tests may be used to identify infection, and testing for sexually transmitted infections may be appropriate. Ultrasound may be used when necessary, particularly to help distinguish epididymitis from other causes of acute scrotal pain.
Prevention
Genital Herpes
Consistent condom or other barrier use can reduce, but does not completely eliminate, the risk of genital herpes transmission because uncovered skin can also transmit the virus. Avoid sexual contact when genital or oral lesions or other outbreak symptoms are present. People who know they have genital herpes should discuss the infection with partners and follow medical advice about antiviral treatment, including suppressive therapy when appropriate.
Epididymitis
Safer sexual practices, including appropriate condom use, can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections that cause epididymitis. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of urinary or sexually transmitted infections can reduce complications. People with urinary tract abnormalities or recurrent infections should follow appropriate medical management and seek evaluation for persistent urinary or scrotal symptoms.
Risk Factors
Genital Herpes
Risk increases with sexual contact involving an infected partner, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent use of condoms or other barriers, and previous exposure to herpes simplex virus. Because transmission can occur without visible sores, a person may be exposed without knowing that a partner has an active infection. Other sexually transmitted infections or behaviors associated with increased sexual exposure can also increase risk.
Epididymitis
Risk increases with unprotected sexual activity and sexually transmitted infections, urinary tract infections, prostate or urinary tract abnormalities, recent urinary procedures, and regular use of a urinary catheter. Previous urinary tract surgery or structural problems may also increase risk.
Treatment
Genital Herpes
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Epididymitis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.