Testicle Pain

What is testicle pain?

Pain in one or both of the testicles can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, an injury, a hernia, or a twisted testicular sac (testicular torsion), cysts, cancer, or a condition called hydrocele.

• Orchitis - A condition, caused by one of many types of bacteria or viruses, in which one or both of the testicles are inflamed; can cause inflammation of the epididymis.
• Epididymitis - Inflammation of the epididymis (the tube along the back of the testicle that carries and stores sperm). Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause epididymitis.
• Injuries to the testicles can lead to pain and swelling of this sensitive area.
• Inguinal hernias occur when a portion of the intestines pushes through a gap or weakened area of tissue that separates the abdomen and groin region. These hernias might look like a mass or lump in either the scrotum or higher up in the groin.
• Testicular torsion is a painful condition in which the testicular sac becomes twisted or rotated, causing the blood flow from the spermatic cord to be cut off. Seek medical attention immediately, as the lack of blood flow and can quickly cause severe damage that might lead to removal of the testicle(s).
• Spermatoceles - Cysts that form on the epididymis. They are benign fluid-filled sacs that are typically painless unless infected.
• Testicular cancer presents itself as tumors. These lumps of abnormal testicular tissue can usually be felt in the scrotum, and can occasionally cause pain and/or swelling.
• Hydrocele is a condition in which excess fluid accumulates in the space between the layers of the sac that surrounds each testicle. It can cause pain, redness and swelling and is typically caused by either an injury or infection.

Some of these conditions are very serious, so if you are experiencing pain in the testicles, seek emergency medical care. Even if there is no pain accompanying any of these scrotal masses or conditions, it is important to get examined (and treated if necessary) by a doctor to rule out cancer or to avoid complications of regular testicular function.