Testicular Pain and Growth: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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Hello Howard,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the sudden onset of pain in your left testicle and the discovery of a small lump. Testicular pain can arise from a variety of causes, and it’s important to understand the potential implications of your symptoms.

Firstly, the presence of a lump on the testicle, especially if it is not on the surface of the scrotum, warrants careful evaluation. Common causes of testicular lumps include epididymal cysts, varicoceles, or even testicular tumors. Epididymal cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the epididymis, which is the tube that carries sperm from the testicle. They are generally benign and may not cause significant pain unless they become large or inflamed.

The sudden pain you experienced could be related to several factors. One possibility is that you may have experienced a minor injury or strain, particularly if you were sitting for an extended period. Additionally, the act of holding back ejaculation, as you mentioned, can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain in the testicles due to increased pressure and congestion in the reproductive system. This is often referred to as "blue balls," a colloquial term for the discomfort that can occur when sexual arousal does not culminate in ejaculation.

However, it is crucial to note that while these benign explanations exist, any new or unusual lump in the testicular area should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Testicular cancer, although less common, can present as a painless lump or swelling, and early detection is key to successful treatment. Other serious conditions, such as torsion (twisting of the spermatic cord), can also cause acute pain and require immediate medical attention.

Given that you do not have accompanying symptoms such as fever, swelling, or significant changes in the testicle's size, it is reassuring, but it does not eliminate the need for a thorough examination. I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a urologist as soon as possible. They will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend an ultrasound of the testicle to assess the lump and rule out any serious conditions.

In the meantime, avoid any activities that may exacerbate the pain, such as vigorous exercise or any form of trauma to the area. Wearing supportive underwear may help alleviate discomfort during daily activities.

To summarize, while your symptoms may be due to benign causes such as a cyst or muscle strain, the presence of a lump necessitates further evaluation to rule out more serious conditions. Please do not hesitate to seek medical attention, as early diagnosis and treatment are essential for any testicular issues.

Take care, and I hope you find relief soon.

Best regards,
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