7 Possible causes of swollen testicles and what to do

The swelling in the testicle is usually a sign that there is a problem at the site and, therefore, it is very important to see a urologist as soon as a difference in the size of the scrotum is identified in order to make the diagnosis and start the correct treatment.

Most of the time, the swelling is caused by a less serious problem such as hernia, varicocele or epididymitis, but it can also be a sign of more urgent changes such as testicular torsion or cancer, for example.

1. Inguinal hernia

Inguinal hernia happens when a portion of the intestine is able to pass through the muscles of the abdomen and enters the scrotum, causing severe swelling associated with a slight and constant pain, which does not go away, and which gets worse when getting up from the chair or bending the body forward. Although this problem is more common in children and young adults, it can happen at any age.

• What to do: It is recommended to consult a surgeon, who will evaluate the hernia, to decide if it is necessary to perform surgery, to place the intestine in the correct place. Thus, whenever you suspect an inguinal hernia, it is recommended to go to the hospital as soon as possible, since there is a risk of serious complications such as infection and death of the intestinal cells.

2. Varicocele

Varicocele consists of dilation of the veins in the testicle (very similar to what happens with varicose veins in the legs) which can cause swelling in the testicles, most often in the upper part, being the most frequent cause of male infertility. This type of change is more common in the left testicle and is usually not accompanied by other symptoms, although some men may experience a slight sensation of discomfort or heat in the scrotum region.

• What to do: treatment is usually not necessary, however if there is pain it is important to go to the hospital or consult a urologist to start treatment with pain relievers, such as paracetamol or dipyrone. In addition, the doctor may also recommend the use of special, tighter underwear to support the testicles, and in some cases it may be necessary to perform surgery. Learn more about the treatment of varicocele.

3. Epididymitis

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the place where the vas deferens connect to the testis, which can manifest itself as a small lump on the top of the testicle. This inflammation usually happens due to a bacterial infection transmitted by unprotected anal sex, but it can also occur in other cases. Other symptoms can be severe pain, fever and chills.

• What to do: Epididymitis needs to be treated with antibiotics and it is therefore necessary to consult a urologist if this infection is suspected. Treatment with antibiotics usually includes an injection of ceftriaxone followed by 10 days of oral antibiotic at home.

4. Orchitis

Orchitis is an inflammation of the testicles that can be caused by viruses or bacteria, and is usually caused by the mumps virus or by bacteria from a urinary tract infection or sexually transmitted disease, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. In these cases, fever, blood in the semen and pain when urinating may also appear.

• What to do: you must go to the hospital to start the appropriate treatment with antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs. Until then, discomfort can be reduced by applying cold compresses to the site and resting.

5. Hydrocele

The hydrocele is characterized by the growth of a liquid-filled pouch inside the scrotum, next to the testicle. This testicle alteration is more common in babies, but it can also happen in men who suffer a testicular trauma, testicular torsion or epididymitis, for example. Understand more about what the hydrocele is.

• What to do: Although, in most cases, the hydrocele disappears on its own between 6 to 12 months, without needing a specific treatment it is recommended to go to the hospital to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other more serious hypotheses.

6. Testicular torsion

Testicular torsion happens when the cord responsible for the blood supply to the testicles is twisted, being an emergency situation, more common between 10 and 25 years old, which causes swelling and very intense pain in the testicles region. In some cases, this torsion may not happen completely and, therefore, the pain may be less intense or appear according to the movements of the body. See how a testicle torsion can happen.

• What to do: It is important to go quickly to the hospital to start treatment with surgery and avoid serious complications such as infertility, for example.

7. Testicular cancer

One of the first symptoms of cancer in the testicle is the appearance of a lump or the increase in the size of one testicle in relation to the other, which can be mistaken for a swelling. In these cases, it is common for pain not to appear, but a change in the shape and hardness of the testicles may be noted. Factors that increase the risk of developing testicular cancer are having a family history of testicular cancer or having HIV. See what other symptoms can indicate testicular cancer.

• What to do: Cancer must be identified as early as possible to increase the chances of a cure. Therefore, if there is a suspicion of cancer it is recommended to make an appointment with the urologist to do the necessary tests and identify the problem.