Testicular swelling: What's it, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Testicle lump; Lump in the testicle; Scrotal mass

What is testicular swelling?

Testicular swelling is a condition, in which one or both testicles increase in size due to accumulation of fluid, inflammation or other causes. This condition can be caused by various factors and, in some cases, may require medical attention.

Swollen testicle without pain may be a sign of cancer. Most cases of testicular cancer occur in men between the ages of 15 to 40 years. It can also occur at an older or younger age..

Causes of swollen testicles

Swollen testicles can be caused by various reasons., including:

• Varicocele: this condition is characterized by the expansion of the veins in the scrotum. Varicocele can cause testicular swelling and pain.
• Epididymitis: is inflammation of the epididymis – flow, which is located behind the testicle and is responsible for the transport and storage of the seed. Inflammation can cause swelling and pain in the testicle.
• Hydrocele: this is an accumulation of fluid around the testicle, which can lead to an increase in.
• Trauma: damage to the testicle or scrotum can cause swelling due to hemorrhage or other damage.
• Hernia: a hernia can lead to a swollen testicle, when the intestines or other organs are out of their normal position.
• Testicular tumor: in rare cases, a tumor in the testicle can cause swelling.

Possible causes, if the swelling of the scrotum is not painful:

• Herniated bowel loop (it may or may not cause pain)
• Hydrocele
• Spermatocele
• Testicular cancer
• Varicocele
• Epididymal or testicular cyst

Testicular swelling symptoms

Symptoms of a swollen testicle may include:

• Enlargement of one or both testicles
• Heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum
• Swelling or induration in the testicle
• Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum
• Descent or hanging of the testicle
• No symptoms in some cases

When to See a Doctor

If you have a swollen testicle or experience any related symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Besides, should see a doctor, if testicular swelling:

• Increases in size or does not disappear with time
• Accompanied by severe pain, high fever or other warning signs
• Interferes with normal functioning or causes discomfort

Questions, which the doctor can ask for swelling of the testicle

When You See Your Doctor About a Swollen Testicle, your doctor may ask you the following questions:

• When did you notice a swollen testicle??
• Whether swelling increases over time or remains stable?
• Do you have pain or discomfort?
• Have you had any injuries or incidents, that could cause swelling?
• Have you ever had problems with your testicle or scrotum?
• Are you taking any medications or undergoing any treatment, which can affect testicular swelling?
• Do you have a family history of testicular tumors or other related conditions?
• What factors or activities exacerbate symptoms?

Testicular swelling diagnosis

To diagnose a swollen testicle, your doctor may do the following tests and procedures:

• Physical examination and examination of the testis and scrotum
• Ultrasound of the testis and scrotum to evaluate structure and detect fluid accumulation
• Blood test to evaluate levels of certain markers and rule out infections or tumors
• Roentgen, CT or MRI for more detailed information about the testicle and surrounding tissues
• Urinalysis to evaluate for infection or other abnormalities
• Testicular biopsy, if a tumor is suspected

Testicular swelling treatment

Treatment for a swollen testicle depends on its cause and may include:

• Conservative treatment: when, if the testicular swelling is caused by a varicocele or hydrocele, conservative treatment may be prescribed, aimed at relieving symptoms and improving the condition without surgical intervention.
• Drug treatment: if the epididymis is inflamed or infected, antibiotics or other anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed.
• Surgical treatment: in some cases, such as a testicular tumor or traumatic injury, surgery may be required to remove the tumor, repair of damaged tissues or restoration of the normal structure of the testis and scrotum.

Home Treatment

Treatment for testicular swelling at home may be limited, especially if the swelling is caused by a serious cause, such as a tumor or injury. But, to relieve symptoms and reduce discomfort, you can try the following measures:

• Application of cold: Apply an ice pack or cold compress to the swollen testicle for 15-20 minutes once a day.
• Keep Support: wear a supportive pad or tight-fitting underwear, to help keep the testicle in the correct position and reduce discomfort.
• Rest and avoid physical activity, which can aggravate symptoms.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to relieve pain and inflammation (But be sure to check with your doctor before using them.).
• Follow your doctor's advice and stick to your prescribed treatment.

Testicular swelling prevention

Although some causes of testicular swelling are unavoidable, there are some measures, which can help you reduce your risk of this condition:

• Avoid injuries and damage to the scrotum. Wear protective gear, if you play sports or perform activities, which may pose a risk of injury.
• Maintain good scrotal and testicular hygiene. Wash these areas regularly with water and mild soap.
• Avoid heavy lifting and physical activity, which can adversely affect the testicles.
• Perform regular scrotal and testicular examinations on your own and contact your doctor if you find any changes or unusual symptoms.

Used sources and literature

Elder JS. Disorders and anomalies of the scrotal contents. In: Kliegman RM, St. GemeJW, Bloom NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 560.

Fadich A, Giorgianni SJ, Rovita MJ, et al. USPSTF testicular examination nomination-self-examinations and examinations in a clinical setting. Am J Mens Health. 2018;12(5):1510-1516. PMID: 29717912 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29717912/.

Palmer LS, Palmer JS. Management of abnormalities of the external genitalia in boys. In: Party AW, Domochowski RR, Kavousi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 44.

Stephenson AJ, Gilligan TD. Neoplasms of the testis. In: Party AW, Domochowski RR, Kavousi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 76.