Testicle ache, or pain in the testicles, is a condition that can arise from various causes, and it’s a concern that many men experience. It’s important to understand when testicle pain requires immediate medical attention and when it’s less urgent. This guide will help you navigate the reasons behind testicular pain and what steps you should take.
When is Testicle Pain an Emergency?
Sudden and severe testicle pain can indicate a serious medical issue that needs immediate treatment. You should seek emergency medical help right away if you experience any of the following:
- Sudden, severe pain in a testicle: This could be a sign of testicular torsion, a condition where the testicle twists, cutting off its blood supply.
- Testicle pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain: These symptoms together might point to a serious underlying problem.
- Testicle pain that lasts for more than an hour or persists even when resting: Prolonged pain is not normal and needs to be evaluated.
Immediate Action: If you are experiencing these emergency symptoms, go to the nearest emergency room (A&E) or call emergency services immediately. Do not drive yourself; ask someone to drive you or call for an ambulance. Bring any medications you are currently taking with you to the hospital.
When to See a Doctor for Testicle Ache?
For less severe or persistent, but not immediately critical, testicular discomfort, it’s important to consult a doctor. Schedule an appointment with your General Practitioner (GP) if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Aching or discomfort in your testicles that worries you: Any persistent or concerning pain should be checked out.
- A lump in your testicles: Lumps can be benign or malignant and require medical evaluation.
- Swollen testicles: Swelling can be a sign of infection or other conditions.
- A change in the shape or size of your testicles: Any alteration in the normal appearance of your testicles should be investigated.
- A change in how your testicles feel: Changes in texture or consistency need medical attention.
- One testicle becoming larger than the other: While some size difference is normal, a sudden or significant change warrants a doctor’s visit.
Common Causes of Testicle Pain
Understanding the potential causes of testicle pain can help you be more informed, but self-diagnosis is not recommended. Always seek professional medical advice for any testicular pain.
Serious Causes:
- Testicular Torsion: As mentioned earlier, this is a critical condition caused by the twisting of the testicle, which requires urgent medical intervention to prevent testicle damage or loss.
Less Serious Causes:
- Epididymitis: This is an inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm, often caused by a bacterial infection.
- Injury: Trauma to the testicles, even minor, can cause pain.
- Inguinal Hernia: This occurs when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles in the groin, which can sometimes cause testicular pain.
- Hydrocele (Cyst): A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac surrounding a testicle that can cause swelling and discomfort.
- Varicocele: This is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, similar to varicose veins in the legs, which can sometimes cause pain.
It’s crucial to remember that pain alone is not typically a sign of testicular cancer. Testicular cancer usually presents with other symptoms, such as a lump or swelling, which are also reasons to promptly see a doctor.
Important Reminder: Do not attempt to diagnose the cause of your testicle pain yourself. If you are concerned about any pain or changes in your testicles, seek medical advice from a healthcare professional to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you are unsure whether your situation is urgent, you can contact NHS 111 for guidance on the best course of action.
