Testicular Pain Should Never Be Ignored
Sudden testicular pain is something no man wants to experience, but when it does happen, it needs to be taken seriously. Whether the pain is sharp or dull, mild or intense, it can signal a medical emergency that requires fast treatment.
Some causes of testicular pain can lead to permanent damage or even loss of the testicle if not treated quickly. Understanding what to watch for, and when to head to the ER, could make all the difference in protecting your health.
What Is Acute Testicular Pain?
Acute testicular pain refers to sudden discomfort in one or both testicles. It may come on without warning or begin after injury, activity, or infection. The pain can range from mild to excruciating and may be constant or come in waves.
In some cases, pain in the testicles may originate elsewhere in the body, such as the abdomen or urinary tract.
While some causes are relatively minor, others can threaten fertility or indicate a serious infection. The key is knowing which symptoms demand emergency care.
When Testicular Pain Means a Medical Emergency
Seek immediate emergency care if you experience:
- Sudden, severe pain in one testicle
- Swelling or redness of the scrotum
- Nausea or vomiting with the pain
- A high-riding testicle or one that feels out of place
- Fever or chills
- Pain that gets worse over a few hours
- Recent trauma to the groin
These signs above can indicate impaired blood flow, infection, or nerve involvement, all of which require prompt medical evaluation.
Testicular Torsion: A True Emergency
One of the most serious causes of testicular pain is testicular torsion, a condition in which the spermatic cord twists and cuts off blood flow to the testicle. It can happen after physical activity, minor trauma, or even during sleep. Even if the pain improves, do not assume torsion has been resolved, as blood flow can still be compromised.
Symptoms of torsion include:
- Sudden, severe pain in one testicle
- Rapid swelling of the scrotum
- Nausea or vomiting
- One testicle appearing higher than the other
- Firmness or hardness in the affected testicle
Testicular torsion is most common in males between 12 and 18 years old, but it can occur at any age, even in newborns. It’s a surgical emergency, and treatment is most effective within the first 6 hours of symptom onset. Delay beyond that can result in the loss of the testicle.
Other Causes of Testicular Pain
While torsion is the most urgent cause, other conditions can also cause sudden testicular discomfort and may still require ER care:
- Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, often due to infection (including sexually transmitted infections). Pain may be accompanied by swelling, fever, and a feeling of heaviness.
- Orchitis: Inflammation of the testicle itself, sometimes caused by viral infections like mumps. It may occur alongside epididymitis and result in pain and swelling.
- Hernia: An inguinal hernia can sometimes cause pressure or pain in the scrotum, especially if part of the intestine slips into the scrotal sac.
- Testicular trauma: Injury to the testicles from sports or accidents can cause pain, swelling, and bruising. Severe cases may require imaging or surgical evaluation.
- Kidney stones: Although kidney stones start in the back or side, the pain can radiate to the groin and be confused with testicular pain.
- Hydrocele or varicocele: Fluid buildup or enlarged veins in the scrotum may cause aching or heaviness over time, though not typically sharp pain.
What to Expect in the ER
If you arrive at the ER with testicular pain, the medical team will:
- Ask about the onset and severity of pain
- Perform a physical exam
- Order an ultrasound of the scrotum to assess blood flow
- Check for signs of infection
- Provide pain relief and, if necessary, antibiotics
If testicular torsion is suspected, imaging may be skipped to save time. Immediate surgery may be recommended to untwist the cord and restore blood flow.
Why Timing Is Everything
In cases like testicular torsion, time is critical. The longer the blood supply is cut off, the higher the chance of permanent damage. After 6 hours, the risk of losing the testicle increases significantly. After 12 hours, it may be too late to save it.
Even if the pain turns out to be from a less severe cause, it’s better to be safe and get checked early. Ignoring the symptoms or waiting too long can lead to complications like infertility, abscesses, or prolonged recovery. If you think you have testicular torsion, don’t delay care; seek help immediately.
Protecting Your Health: When in Doubt, Get It Checked
It’s understandable to feel embarrassed about groin pain, but delaying care out of discomfort or uncertainty can have serious consequences. If you’re in pain or something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and seek medical help. Prompt treatment can protect your fertility and reduce complications.
Sugar Land ER offers prompt, discreet, and professional evaluation for all types of urgent symptoms, including testicular pain. Our team is here to provide answers and fast treatment.
