Right Testicle Hardness and Back Pain: the Symptoms

The right testicle has become hard, and there is pain in the lower back?

Doctor, I noticed that half of my right testicle feels hard while taking a shower.
Some days, touching the right testicle causes pain, and I've also been experiencing soreness in my lower back.
I went to the hospital and was told it was epididymitis.
After taking medication, the pain in my testicle has subsided, but it still feels half hard and half soft.
However, the soreness in my lower back has worsened, and it seems to be related to my kidneys.
Why could this be happening?

Lengxin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/05

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology

Hello, inflammation of the testicles and testicular torsion are both possibilities.
Severe pain in the lower back is also noted.
It is recommended to promptly visit a urologist for evaluation, including urine screening, and to assess the necessity of abdominal X-rays and ultrasound.

Reply Date: 2016/09/05

More Info

When it comes to the symptoms you are experiencing, which include hardness in the right testicle, pain upon touch, and worsening back pain, it is essential to consider a few potential underlying causes. Your previous diagnosis of epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) is a significant clue, as this condition can indeed lead to discomfort in the testicular area. However, the persistence of back pain, particularly if it feels like it is related to the kidneys, warrants further investigation.

Epididymitis can cause referred pain to the lower back due to the shared nerve pathways in the pelvic region. The inflammation and discomfort in the epididymis can lead to muscle tension and pain in the lower back as your body compensates for the discomfort. It is also possible that the inflammation could be affecting nearby structures, leading to additional discomfort.

The hardness you describe in the right testicle could be due to several factors. It may be a result of swelling from the inflammation, or it could indicate the presence of a cyst or other benign condition. In some cases, testicular torsion or tumors could also present with hardness and pain, although these conditions usually come with more severe symptoms and require immediate medical attention.

Given that your back pain has intensified, it is crucial to consider the possibility of a kidney-related issue. Kidney stones or infections can cause referred pain to the lower back and may also be associated with testicular discomfort. If the pain in your back feels sharp or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, changes in urination, or blood in the urine, you should seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while your initial diagnosis of epididymitis may explain some of your symptoms, the ongoing back pain and the hardness in the testicle suggest that further evaluation is necessary. It would be wise to follow up with a healthcare provider who can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies like an ultrasound of the testicle and kidneys, to rule out any serious conditions. Additionally, discussing your symptoms in detail with your doctor will help them understand the full picture and guide you toward the appropriate treatment.

In the meantime, managing your symptoms with rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can be beneficial. However, do not delay in seeking further medical evaluation, especially if your symptoms worsen or new symptoms arise. Your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns promptly will help ensure the best possible outcome.

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