Testicular Torsion: Symptoms and Effects on the Scrotum - Urology

More Info

---

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. This condition can lead to severe pain and, if not treated promptly, can result in permanent damage or loss of the affected testicle.


Symptoms of Testicular Torsion
The hallmark symptom of testicular torsion is sudden, severe pain in the scrotum. This pain often comes on quickly and can be accompanied by other symptoms, including:
1. Swelling: The affected side of the scrotum may become swollen and enlarged. This swelling can be significant and is often accompanied by tenderness.


2. Redness: The skin of the scrotum may appear red or inflamed. However, the degree of redness can vary. In some cases, it may be a mild redness, while in others, it can be quite pronounced. The affected area may also feel warm to the touch.

3. Nausea and Vomiting: Many individuals experience nausea and vomiting due to the severe pain and stress on the body.

4. Abnormal Position of the Testicle: The affected testicle may be positioned higher in the scrotum than the other testicle. This abnormal positioning is often a key indicator of torsion.

5. Pain in the Abdomen: Sometimes, the pain may radiate to the lower abdomen, making it difficult to pinpoint the source of discomfort.


Effects on the Scrotum
When testicular torsion occurs, the scrotum can undergo several changes:
- Color Changes: As mentioned, the scrotum may become red or even dark purple if the blood supply is severely compromised. This discoloration is due to the lack of oxygenated blood reaching the tissues.

- Temperature Changes: The affected side may feel warmer or cooler than the other side, depending on the extent of blood flow interruption.

- Asymmetry: The scrotum may appear asymmetrical, with one side being larger or differently shaped than the other.


Duration of Pain
The pain associated with testicular torsion is typically constant and severe. Unlike some other conditions that may cause intermittent pain, the pain from torsion does not subside and often worsens over time. This is a critical factor that differentiates it from other conditions such as epididymitis or trauma.


Urgency of Treatment
Testicular torsion is a surgical emergency. If you suspect that you or someone else is experiencing symptoms of testicular torsion, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. The longer the testicle remains twisted, the greater the risk of permanent damage. Ideally, surgical intervention should occur within 6 hours of the onset of symptoms to preserve the testicle.


Conclusion
In summary, testicular torsion is characterized by sudden, severe pain in the scrotum, swelling, potential redness, and changes in the position of the testicle. The condition requires urgent medical attention to prevent serious complications. If you experience these symptoms, do not hesitate to go to the nearest emergency room. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preserving testicular function and overall reproductive health.