Testicular Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery - Urology

Share to:

Testicular pain


Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question.
Two days ago, after I woke up in the morning, I noticed that my left testicle was enlarged, red, swollen, and painful.
That evening, I went to the urology department at the hospital.
The doctor told me that it was testicular inflammation and prescribed some anti-inflammatory medication.
However, after returning home, I developed a fever.
As of today, although the pain and fever have subsided, I still feel that the left testicle seems to be swollen and is somewhat smaller than before, but it still feels larger than it was when it was normal.
Additionally, during my self-examination, I felt some hard areas.
I would like to ask the doctor if those hard areas are related to my condition, or will they resolve over time?

Bei Gege, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/06/28

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology


Hello: I suggest you continue to monitor your condition.
If there is no improvement, please return to the urology clinic for further examination and treatment.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2006/06/28

More Info


Testicular pain can be a concerning symptom, and it's good that you sought medical attention promptly. Based on your description, it seems you experienced acute inflammation of the left testicle, which is often referred to as epididymitis or orchitis, depending on whether the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm) or the testicle itself is primarily affected.

Causes of Testicular Pain
1. Infection: The most common cause of acute testicular pain in adults is an infection, which can be bacterial or viral. Epididymitis is often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in younger men, while older men may experience it due to urinary tract infections or other bacteria.

2. Trauma: Any injury to the testicles can lead to swelling and pain.

3. Torsion: Testicular torsion is a surgical emergency where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off blood supply to the testicle. This condition usually presents with sudden, severe pain and requires immediate medical attention.

4. Hernia: An inguinal hernia can also cause discomfort in the testicular area.

5. Tumors: Although less common, tumors can present as a mass in the testicle and may cause pain or discomfort.


Symptoms to Monitor
- Swelling: It's normal for the affected testicle to remain swollen for a period after inflammation. However, if the swelling persists or worsens, it may require further evaluation.


- Hardness: The presence of hard lumps or nodules in the testicle can be concerning. While some lumps may be benign (like cysts), others could indicate more serious conditions, including tumors.

- Fever: The initial fever you experienced suggests that there was an active infection. The absence of fever now is a positive sign, indicating that the infection may be resolving.


Recovery and Follow-Up
1. Medication: It's essential to complete the course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor. This will help ensure that any infection is fully treated.

2. Rest and Ice: Resting and applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

3. Follow-Up: Since you mentioned the presence of hard areas upon self-examination, it is crucial to follow up with your urologist. They may recommend an ultrasound to evaluate the testicle and surrounding structures to rule out any serious conditions.

4. Monitoring: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you experience a return of fever, increased pain, or any new symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.


Conclusion
In summary, while it is common for the testicle to remain swollen for some time after an infection, the presence of hard lumps should not be ignored. It is advisable to have a follow-up appointment with your urologist to ensure that everything is healing correctly and to address any concerns regarding the hard areas you have noticed. Early intervention is key to managing any potential complications effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding and Managing Testicular Pain: Causes and Solutions

I have pain in my right testicle, a kind of dull ache. I haven't touched it, so why is this happening? How can I improve this? Thank you.


Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Hello: In response to your question, the causes of testicular pain may include bacterial infection, varicocele, hernia, cremasteric contraction, and neuropathic pain. It is best to visit a hospital for a thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis.

[Read More] Understanding and Managing Testicular Pain: Causes and Solutions


Understanding Testicular Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Experiencing pain in the right testicle after walking for five minutes, while the size of the testicles seems similar, could indicate a few potential issues. The fact that the pain alleviates when sitting or lying down suggests it may be related to physical activity or pressure. ...


Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology
Please cherish our online medical resources. When asking the same question, please specify only one physician or nutritionist. You may be experiencing testicular torsion, inflammation, or varicocele. Please consult a urologist.

[Read More] Understanding Testicular Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help


Understanding Testicular Pain: Causes and Related Symptoms

Hello doctor, could you please explain what causes testicular pain? I also experience some bladder pressure and a bit of cramping when the pain occurs.


Dr. Chen Zhirong reply Urology
Hello young man: Given your age, the common causes of testicular pain may include orchitis, testicular torsion, ureteral stones, or even excessive sperm accumulation. You mentioned experiencing bladder distension and pain as well, so it is advisable for you to visit a urology cli...

[Read More] Understanding Testicular Pain: Causes and Related Symptoms


Understanding Testicular Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

After resting while sitting at noon, I got up in the afternoon and noticed a dull pain in my testicles. At first, I didn't pay much attention to it, but later when I got home to take a shower, I discovered that the right testicle was larger than the left (it felt swollen). I...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: You should seek medical attention as your condition may be due to inflammation. It is important to consult a healthcare professional. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Understanding Testicular Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help


Related FAQ

Testicles

(Urology)

Orchitis

(Urology)

Pain After Ejaculation

(Urology)

Prostatitis

(Urology)

Varicocele

(Urology)

Hematospermia

(Urology)

Scrotal Edema

(Urology)

Erectile Dysfunction

(Urology)

Low Back Pain

(Urology)

Spermatic Cord

(Urology)