Testicular Pain: Is It Epididymitis or Something Else?

Testicular issues?

Since last Saturday, I have experienced pain when touching the area above my right testicle.
On Sunday, I noticed a soft lump above the right testicle that does not hurt unless I touch it.
This continued on Monday.
By Tuesday, the pain had decreased, but the lump was still palpable.
On Wednesday, the testicle began to enlarge, but I did not pay much attention to it.
On Thursday and Friday, I played basketball with my classmates.
Now, the right testicle is significantly larger, while the left one appears normal.
When applying the same amount of pressure to both testicles, the left one is painless, but the right one is somewhat painful.
Could this be epididymitis, or is it another condition? Is there a connection between this and frequent masturbation?

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/23

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

It could be epididymitis, which should not be taken lightly.
If it worsens, the situation could become serious, so it is important to see a urologist for examination and treatment.
Is there any relation between frequent masturbation and this condition? When masturbating, it is also important to pay attention to lubrication (to avoid injuries) and cleanliness (to prevent wound infections or infections of the reproductive and urinary tracts).

Reply Date: 2016/04/23

More Info

Testicular pain can be a concerning symptom and may arise from various conditions, including epididymitis, testicular torsion, or even trauma. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing pain in the right testicle, accompanied by swelling and the presence of a soft mass above the testicle. Let's break down the potential causes and considerations regarding your symptoms.

Possible Causes of Testicular Pain
1. Epididymitis: This is the inflammation of the epididymis, which is the tube that carries sperm from the testicle. Epididymitis is often caused by infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea, or urinary tract infections. Symptoms typically include swelling, pain, and tenderness in the affected testicle, which can worsen with touch. The soft mass you felt could be an inflamed epididymis.

2. Testicular Torsion: This is a medical emergency where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. Symptoms include sudden, severe pain, swelling, and sometimes nausea. Testicular torsion usually requires immediate surgical intervention to prevent loss of the testicle.

3. Trauma: If you have engaged in activities such as playing basketball or other sports, trauma to the testicles can lead to pain and swelling. It's essential to consider if there was any direct injury that could have caused these symptoms.

4. Hernia: An inguinal hernia can sometimes present with swelling in the scrotal area, especially if there is a bulge that can be felt. This occurs when tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles.

5. Varicocele or Hydrocele: These conditions involve the veins or fluid around the testicle and can cause swelling and discomfort. A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, while a hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac surrounding the testicle.

Recommendations
Given that your symptoms have persisted and the swelling has increased, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Here are some steps you should consider:
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with a urologist or visit an urgent care facility. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the condition of the testicles and surrounding structures.

- Avoid Strenuous Activity: Until you have been evaluated, it is advisable to refrain from activities that could exacerbate the pain or swelling, such as playing sports or heavy lifting.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the degree of pain, swelling, or any new symptoms such as fever or discharge. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may suggest epididymitis, it is essential to rule out other potential causes, especially testicular torsion, which is a surgical emergency. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome. Do not hesitate to seek medical care, as testicular issues can have significant implications for reproductive health.

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