Final answer:
Epididymitis is the inflammation of the epididymis, often due to bacterial infection, whereas orchitis is the inflammation of the testicles, which can also result from infections or viral diseases like mumps. Both require treatment to prevent complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary difference between epididymitis and orchitis is that epididymitis involves inflammation of the epididymis, while orchitis involves inflammation of the testicles. Epididymitis can be either acute or chronic, with treatment options varying accordingly.
Symptoms of epididymitis include pain and swelling in the scrotum, and this condition is often caused by a bacterial infection. Orchitis may be the result of the spread of this kind of bacterial infection or as a complication of viral diseases like mumps. Both conditions can cause similar symptoms and may occur together, known as epididymo-orchitis. It is critical to treat these conditions to prevent further complications, including infertility.