There’s not a man on the planet who hasn’t experienced pain in the testicles. In most instances, it is a benign condition but any lump or bump in the scrotum requires medical attention. Testicular pain is not something you can disregard. There are some conditions if not evaluated by a doctor can result in the loss of the testicle. Here’s some good news about testicular pain: It’s rarely a symptom of testicular caner. Only 1 out of 10 men with testicular cancer feels pain.
All men are familiar with the crippling, delayed pain that accompanies a blow to the testicles such as a kick from an aggressive male or punch from a soccer ball to the private parts. For just a second following impact, it feels like you may have dodged the bullet. Then, the growing, leg-weakening awfulness sets in. Usually, the pain passes and everything’s OK.
A direct blow can cause blood to collect between these protective layers. This is called a hematocele. A hematocele may simply be managed with bed rest.
A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac surrounding a testicle that causes swelling in the scrotum. A hydrocele usually isn’t painful and might not need any treatment. However, large hydrococeles may require surgical attention.
The epididymis is a coiled tube located in the back of each testicle. It’s a storage and delivery system for sperm. It’s possible for the epididymis to get inflamed and is a common source of pain in the pouch. When the epididymis becomes inflamed, the testicles commonly get slightly swollen and red. Epididymitis is usually treated with antibiotics.
Orchitis is a painful swelling of the testicles that is commonly caused by some type of bacterial or viral infection, such as mumps. Orchitis may cause fever, blood in your semen, and pain when the penis or testicles are moved. Commonly antibiotics along with anti-inflammatories are prescribed.
A varicocele is a condition where there is an enlargement of the veins inside the scrotum that transport blood back to the heart. The valves in the veins have become incompetent and the veins dilate and cause pain. Most varicoceles occur on the left testicle. Varicoceles are easy to treat through either the anti-inflammatories such as over the counter Motrin or through minor surgery that removes obstructed veins.
When the spermatic cord gets twisted and shuts off flood flow to your testicles this is a medical emergency called testicular torsion. Failure to get prompt medical attention may result in loss of the testicle.
A benign cyst can grow on the top epididymis. This is called a spermatocele. Most of the time, they’re very small and don’t cause any problems. However, sometimes they grow in size and cause pain and require surgical removal. Testicular cancer is highly treatable, even when cancer has spread beyond the testicle.
Compared with other types of cancer, testicular cancer is rare. But testicular cancer is the most common cancer in American males between the ages of 15 and 35. The symptoms are usually a painless lump or enlargement of the testicle. When it comes to testicular cancer, early detection is incredibly important. Treatment is usually surgical removal of the testicle.
Kidney stones within the urinary tract that blocks the flow of urine causes severe flank or back pain which may radiate to the lower abdomen and groin area. Most kidney stones are small and will pass during urination.
Bottom Line: “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it” may apply to your car but not to your “package” between your legs. In many cases, trying to pretend the pain will go away could mean worsening your problem — even to the point of needing surgery or getting your testicles removed. Don’t delay see your doctor right away.