The testicles are an important part of the male anatomy because they store sperm until the body needs it and keep it at the proper temperature to keep it healthy.
The testicles are encased in a protective sac called the scrotum. Despite this defense, these glands are still susceptible to medical issues.
Physical injury, inflammation, infection, and other complications can all cause pain in men. Some conditions can be treated with medication, while others may require surgery. Such complications can lead to minor issues or sterilization.
What Are Testicles?
The male sex glands are the testicles (also known as testes or gonads). They are found in the scrotum, a pouch of skin behind the penis.
The testicles produce and store sperm, as well as being the primary source of male hormones in the body (testosterone). These hormones regulate the growth of the reproductive organs as well as other male characteristics like body and facial hair, a low voice, and broad shoulders.
Common Causes of Testicle Pain
Testicle pain can be caused by a variety of factors. The testicles are extremely sensitive, and even a minor injury can result in testicle or scrotum pain. The testicle itself may cause pain, or the coiled tube and supporting tissue behind the testicle may cause pain (epididymis).
Testicle pain can sometimes be caused by a problem that begins in the groin, abdomen, or elsewhere. For example, kidney stones and some hernias can cause testicle sharp pain. It’s not always possible to pinpoint the source of testicle pain.
Some common causes include:
Testicular Torsion
When the testicle rotates, the spermatic cord twists, causing testicular torsion. Because the spermatic cord is in charge of supplying blood to the scrotum, blood flow is restricted, resulting in sudden and severe testicle pain and swelling. Although it is most common between the ages of 12 and 18, this condition can affect anyone at any age.
Torsion of the testes may necessitate medical attention. Doctors can often save the testicle if they are treated quickly. However, the longer the scrotum is without blood flow, the greater the risk of severe damage.
Age, previous incidents, and a family history of testicular torsion are all risk factors for testicular torsion.
Varicocele
Varicoceles are enlargements of the veins in the scrotum that cause low sperm production and poor sperm quality. Varicoceles can also cause testicles to shrink or prevent them from developing the property.
Even though varicoceles usually have no symptoms, they can cause pain that ranges from dull to sharp, worsens while standing, improves throughout the day, and subsides when lying down.
Although not all cases necessitate treatment, any pain or discomfort in the testicles should prompt a visit to the doctor.
Spermatocele
The epididymis is a small, coiled tube that collects and transports sperm in the upper part of the testicle.
A spermatocele is an abnormal sac or cyst that develops within the tube. The cyst is generally noncancerous and contains a milky liquid that may contain sperm.
Spermatoceles are common and usually do not require treatment, but if they become enlarged, they can cause pain.
Cancer
When men experience testicle pain, they should see a doctor because something more serious may be going on. Pain in the testicles, a Testicular tumor can be a sign of testicular cancer, though it is uncommon. Testicular cancer symptoms include:
- Either testicle’s growth or enlargement
- Feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- Abdominal or groin ache that is dull
- Sudden fluid collection in the scrotum
- Pain or discomfort in either the testicle or the scrotum
- Backache
Any pain in the testicles should be reported to a doctor, and pain that lasts longer than two weeks could suggest cancer.
Testicular Rupture
The testicles and scrotum are extremely sensitive to injury. A testicular rupture occurs when the scrotum is torn away from the testicles and can be caused by anything from being kicked in the groin to a bicycle or other accident.
Any such injury is harmful and causes excruciating pain. A testicular rupture necessitates medical attention right away. The pain alone will ensure that medical treatment is received as soon as possible. The testicle may be lost if the trauma is severe.
Hematocele
Scrotal mass, or hematocele, is an abnormal enlargement in the scrotum. Fluid, abnormal tissue, or swollen normal scrotal contents can all be found in scrotal masses.
A hematocele affects the entire scrotal area, causing redness, sensitivity, and swelling. The pain in your testicles can be dull and aching. Because a hematocele can be cancerous, it’s critical to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Orchitis
Orchitis is a condition in which one or both testicles become inflamed. The condition can be caused by infections, mumps, or sexually transmitted infections. If the following symptoms are present, orchitis is a possibility:
- Testicles that are red, tender, swollen, and purple
- Vomiting and nausea
- Heavy sensation in the testicles
- Bloody sperm
- Fever
- Urination and bowel movements that hurt
- Excruciating intercourse
Orchitis can be caused by a variety of infections, which can be determined by a doctor. Because the patient will almost certainly require antibiotics, it is best to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Others include:
- Epididymitis (commonly caused by bacterial infection)
- Kidney stone
- Inguinal hernia
- Urinary tract infection
- Sexually transmitted infection
How is testicular pain diagnosed?
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
For a precise diagnosis, consult your doctor or another health care professional.