Testicles and lower abdomen?
Hello, doctor.
A few days ago, while I was lying on the couch watching TV at midnight, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my right testicle.
The pain was more pronounced when I pressed around the area of the testicle, but it subsided after about a minute.
The next day, I started feeling a dull discomfort in my lower abdomen, similar to the urge to urinate, which has persisted for five days.
There is no redness or swelling in the testicle, and moving it around does not cause pain.
However, it seems that my right epididymis is larger than the left.
Could this be epididymitis? Thank you.
Yīshēng nǐ hǎo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/17
Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
It is possible that this could be an early symptom of epididymitis.
A visit to a urologist is necessary for an examination, which should include a physical examination and urinalysis.
It is important to discuss with the doctor whether treatment is needed.
Sometimes, if treatment is delayed and the inflammation worsens, the course of treatment may take longer and be more painful.
Of course, it could also simply be neuralgia or discomfort caused by poor blood circulation.
It is advisable to monitor the situation and avoid prolonged sitting or standing.
If symptoms persist, seek medical attention promptly.
Reply Date: 2020/02/17
More Info
Testicular pain can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its potential causes is crucial for appropriate management. Based on your description, it seems you experienced a sudden episode of pain in your right testicle, followed by a sensation of fullness or discomfort in the lower abdomen that has persisted for several days. The absence of redness or swelling in the testicle is a positive sign, but the enlargement of the right epididymis (the structure that stores and matures sperm) raises some questions.
One possible cause of your symptoms could be epididymitis, which is an inflammation of the epididymis often caused by infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Epididymitis typically presents with pain and swelling in the affected testicle, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, chills, or discharge from the penis. However, in your case, the lack of significant swelling and redness might suggest a less acute process.
Another possibility is testicular torsion, which is a surgical emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. This condition usually presents with sudden, severe pain and often requires immediate medical intervention. However, your symptoms do not seem to align with this diagnosis, especially since the pain resolved quickly and there are no other alarming signs.
Other potential causes of testicular pain include trauma, hernias, or referred pain from other areas, such as the lower abdomen or back. Sometimes, conditions like varicocele (enlargement of veins within the scrotum) or hydrocele (fluid accumulation around the testicle) can also lead to discomfort or a sensation of fullness.
Given that your symptoms have persisted for five days, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A urologist can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the testicles and surrounding structures. This will help determine whether there is any underlying pathology that requires treatment.
In the meantime, here are some general recommendations to manage your discomfort:
1. Rest: Avoid strenuous activities that may exacerbate the pain.
2. Support: Wearing supportive underwear can help alleviate discomfort.
3. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help manage any pain or discomfort.
4. Hydration: Ensure you are well-hydrated, as this can help with overall urinary tract health.
In conclusion, while your symptoms may not indicate an immediate emergency, it is essential to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and provide peace of mind.
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