Causes of Testicular Pain

Dear Ask The Doctor: I've noticed a small lump, on my testicle, my testicle is also very swollen and I have been having alot of pain from the same area.

Dear Scott: My advice with testicular concerns is to have it examined as soon as possible because things can go from bad to worse very quickly with long term consequences.  If someone is experiencing pain, then it should be seen even sooner.  Severe, constant pain or pain accompanied with nausea, vomiting, fevers or injury to the scrotum should be seen in the emergency room.  I have listed some common testicular condition I see in young males in my practice. Only a visit to the doctor, combined with some testing will be able to determine the cause.

Infection or Inflammation:  The most common condition related to testicular inflammation and infection is epididymitis.  This condition can occur at any age, may cause severe, sudden pain.

Trauma or Injury:  Sports injuries or puncture wounds to the scrotum should be assessed quickly.  Lumps found may or may not be related to the injury but need to be examined.

Testicular Torsion:  This is a medical emergency.  It is rare and occurs when the testicles "twist" and cut of the blood supply.  It causes acute severe swelling and needs to "untwisted" within 5 hours.  Surgery is commonly required.

Testicular Cancer:  They usually present as a painless lump in men under the age of 30.

I hope this helps.