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Testicular masses in the form of swellings and lumps are common among boys and men. Most come and go without causing any serious complications. Testicular swellings and lumps can occur in one or both testicles due to many reasons. Not all testicular swellings and lumps point to a serious medical condition. In rare cases, a lump could mean testicular cancer. At the same time, a sudden and severe swelling could be a sign of testicular torsion. Most lumps and swellings, however, are benign and disappear on their own. Still, always seek medical attention when you notice any changes to your testicles.
Testicular lumps and swellings can be due to injury, an infection, or a birth defect. There are different types of testicular lumps and swellings depending on the cause.
This is the most common type of testicular swelling and occurs in about 15% of men. Varicoceles occur when veins in the testicles dilate creating a lump. You notice them more after puberty. This is because the testicles fully develop at this age which means increased blood flow. Varicoceles mostly develop on the left testicle and vary in size. The affected testicle will hang much lower than the other one. Most of the time, there won’t be any symptoms. One in ten men will, however, report a dull or heavy pain in their groin area.
Hydroceles develop when fluid buildups in the testicles. These types of lumps are common in newborns although older men and boys can get them too. Hydroceles occur as painless swellings in one or both testicles. Boys born prematurely are at a higher risk of developing these kinds of testicular lumps.
This is a small swelling that develops in the epididymis. The epididymis is the long tube located behind the testicles. The tube fills with fluid that doesn’t drain out. Epididymal cysts are painless but some men complain of a heavy feeling or dull ache. Go for a checkup if the swelling doesn’t resolve or you are in pain.
This is the inflammation of the epididymis due to a bacterial infection. Epididymitis is usually caused by STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Addressing the underlying cause should resolve the inflammation. Sometimes, an infection can also lead to a condition called orchitis. Orchitis is the inflammation of one or both testicles. Usually, the mumps virus or bacteria causes this kind of inflammation.
Testicular torsion is far more serious and usually a medical emergency. Most of the time, it affects teenage boys aged between 13 and 17 years. If not treated, it could lead to the loss of the affected testicle. The condition occurs when the testicles get twisted due to trauma or injury. Surgery is required fast to untwist them. The major symptom is usually severe pain in one of the testicles. Other symptoms may include;
A hernia occurs when parts of your bowel poke through the groin and into your scrotum. This results in the enlargement of the scrotum and appears as a lump or swelling in the groin. Hernias are painful and need correction through surgery.
Sometimes, swelling or a lump could be a sign of a serious condition like testicular cancer. Testicular cancer is common among men aged between 15 and 35.
Almost all testicular swellings and lumps appear as noticeable swellings. Symptoms vary and depend on the underlying cause of the swelling.
Most testicular lumps and swellings disappear without requiring any medical attention. If the lump or swelling is causing symptoms that are affecting your quality of life or recur often, see a doctor. The doctor will go through your medical history. They may also order tests to pinpoint the underlying cause.
The treatment for testicular swellings and lumps depends on the underlying cause. Some lumps don’t need treatment.
Some testicular lumps don’t need treatment. Cysts will resolve on their own for instance. If in pain, apply a warm washcloth.
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Healthier Me Today is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment, always consult with your healthcare professional. Stay healthy!