Overview

Testicular pain can range from mild discomfort to severe agony and may be caused by various factors, including injury, infection, or underlying medical conditions. Prompt medical attention is crucial to diagnose and treat the root cause. A healthcare professional should evaluate any persistent or sudden testicular pain for timely intervention and care.

Testicular pain signifies the experience of discomfort or pain in the testes, which are the two oval-shaped organs located within the scrotum. This pain can manifest as a sharp, dull, throbbing, or persistent ache in either one or both testicles.

Multiple factors can contribute to testicular pain, including physical injuries, infections, inflammation, and underlying medical conditions. Injuries, such as a direct blow or trauma to the testes, can result in immediate pain and discomfort. Infections, such as epididymitis or orchitis, can also lead to testicular pain and may be accompanied by symptoms such as swelling and redness.

Causes of Testicular Pain

Physical Injury: Trauma or injury to the testicles, such as a direct blow, sports-related accidents, or accidents involving the groyne area, can lead to testicular pain.
Infections: Infections of the testicles or surrounding structures, such as epididymitis or orchitis, can cause severe discomfort and suffering.
Testicular Torsion: This is a medical emergency where the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood supply to the testicle. Testicular torsion causes severe, sudden pain and requires immediate medical attention.

Normal vs Varicocele

Kidney Stones: Sometimes, kidney stones can lead to referred pain that radiates into the testicular region, causing discomfort.
Epididymal Cysts: Cysts in the epididymis, a coiled tube behind the testicle, can lead to pain and discomfort.

Normal vs Varicocele

Varicocele: Varicoceles are scrotal vein enlargements that can cause pain or discomfort in the testicles.
Hydrocele: Fluid accumulation around the testicle can result in a swollen and painful scrotum.
Inguinal Hernia: Hernias may cause testicular pain, particularly when the hernia protrudes into the scrotum.
Referred Pain: Sometimes, conditions like lower back issues, pelvic pain, or abdominal problems can refer to pain in the testicles.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain STIs, such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia, can lead to testicular pain if left untreated.
Autoimmune Conditions: In rare cases, autoimmune diseases like Henoch-Schönlein purpura or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may affect the testicles and cause pain.
Tumours: Although less common, Testicular tumours can cause pain and should be evaluated promptly.

Testicular pain may be isolated to a single testicle or concurrently impact both testicles. The manifestation of pain in one or both testicles is contingent upon the underlying cause. Conditions such as epididymitis or testicular torsion typically elicit pain in a solitary testicle, whereas disorders like kidney stones can give rise to pain radiating to both testicles.

Diagnosis of Testicular Pain

Medical History: The physician will ask about current ailments, history of injuries, and symptoms.
Physical Examination: A careful examination of the scrotum, testicles, and abdomen is conducted to assess for swelling, tenderness, or abnormalities.
Imaging: Ultrasound imaging is commonly used to visualise the testicles and surrounding structures, helping to identify issues like infections, hernias, or testicular torsion.
Urinalysis: Urine tests may be performed to check for signs of infection or inflammation.
Blood Tests: Blood tests are useful in diagnosing autoimmune diseases and sexually transmitted infections, among other underlying problems.
Surgical Exploration: In some cases, if the cause remains unclear or there is suspicion of testicular torsion, exploratory surgery may be necessary to assess the condition directly.

Treatment for Testicular Pain

Rest and Supportive Care: Rest and over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol can relieve minor injuries or strains.
Antibiotics: Antibiotics are administered to treat any underlying infections, such as epididymitis or orchitis, if that is the cause of the pain.
Surgical Intervention: Surgery may be required to fix testicular torsion, hernias, or other medical problems in order to relieve pain.
Pain Management: Severe pain may require prescription pain medication for temporary relief.
Medication Adjustments: A healthcare provider may adjust the medication or dosage if testicular pain is a side effect of certain medications.
Tumour Treatment: If a testicular tumour is discovered, treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the type and stage of the tumour.
Symptomatic Relief: Conditions like varicocele or hydrocele causing discomfort may be managed with supportive measures or, in some cases, surgery.
Lifestyle Changes: Certain lifestyle modifications may be advised in certain situations, like donning supportive pants or steering clear of activities that worsen the discomfort.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Urology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Understanding the multifaceted aspects of testicular pain, including its causes, affected sides, diagnosis, and treatment options, is crucial for maintaining male reproductive health. Timely medical evaluation and appropriate interventions are essential to alleviate discomfort, address underlying issues, and ensure overall well-being.

FAQs About Testicular Pain

Q1. How do you stop testicular pain?
A1. Take a break and shield your groyne and testicles. If you are experiencing pain or soreness from an activity, stop, modify, or take a break. Apply ice or a cold pack to the affected area for ten to twenty minutes. A little fabric should be positioned between your skin and the ice.

Q2. How long should testicle pain last?
A2. In less than an hour, the pain and other symptoms should subside if the injury is minimal to the testicles. You can apply wrapped cold packs to the area, take a painkiller, lie down and gently support the testicles with supportive knickers to help them feel better.

Q3. Who to go to for testicular pain?
A3. It's necessary to see a urologist if you begin to experience minor pain in the testicular area regularly. You should get checked out as soon as something doesn't feel right to rule out any major conditions. Your urologist can also prescribe medications and therapies to ease your discomfort.

Q4. Can sperm buildup cause pain?
A4. Yes, sperm accumulation brought on by extended inactivity between sexual partners can cause pain or discomfort.

Top References

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/16292-testicular-pain
https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/testicle-pain/basics/causes/sym-20050942