Why Do My Balls Hurt?
Every man has an innate knowing that his testicles are a delicate area of his body. Even the topic of testicular pain is a sensitive one to discuss. The testicles are front and center, so to speak, which makes them vulnerable on a physical level. Emotionally, the testicles are known to support male sexual development and virility throughout adulthood. Injury or pain in the testicles, then, can understandably present a fair amount of concern. Here, we discuss what testicular pain may mean.
Does testicular pain suggest cancer?
This is the big question, so we’ll tackle it first. Urologists may see one or more patients every week who are concerned about testicular pain. While pain itself is clearly a common issue, the correlation between pain and testicular cancer is very weak. Testicular cancer is actually quite rare, accounting for only one percent of all cancers that affect men. Furthermore, it is more likely that testicular cancer will present as swelling or a painless lump in one of the testicles. Men can and are encouraged to learn how to perform self-checks to spot testicular cancer or other changes to their anatomy.
Potential Causes of Testicular Pain
- Testicular torsion is a type of pain that may more commonly affect young men (aged 10- to 20-years). This condition can be serious due to its restriction of blood flow to the testes. Torsion typically occurs quickly and causes intense pain. If comfort does not improve within a few minutes, prompt medical attention should be sought.
- Epididymitis is a painful problem that involves inflammation in the tube at the back of the testicle. This condition is typically caused by infection. Often associated with STIs like chlamydia, it is also possible for a basic urinary tract infection to cause epididymitis. A course of antibiotics may be prescribed to resolve the infection.
- Orchitis is also related to infection. This inflammation occurs in the testicles themselves and may improve with antibiotics.
- Hydroceles can cause dull pain that also creates a sense of nausea. This condition involves fluid accumulation near or within the epididymis.
- Spermatocele is an uncomfortable problem related to fluid accumulation in the testicles.
- Varicoceles are a type of varicose vein, or swollen vein, in the testicle.
Most cases of testicular pain can be easily treated with nonsurgical or microsurgical techniques. Don’t let pain bench your quality of life. Call our Chattanooga office at (423) 778-5910 to schedule a consultation.