Testicular pain, lumps and swelling

Overview

Pain, a lump or a change in the size or feel of a testicle needs assessment. Several conditions can cause these symptoms, and many lumps have a non-cancerous explanation. That possibility cannot establish the cause of a particular change without an examination.

Sudden testicular pain is different from a routine discussion about a longstanding concern. It can be caused by twisting that interrupts the blood supply and needs rapid treatment. Do not wait for a telephone appointment to see whether severe pain settles by itself.

By telephone

When symptoms are not an emergency, a telephone conversation can clarify what you noticed and help identify the appropriate urgency of in-person care. Explain whether pain or swelling began first, whether symptoms are changing and whether you have nausea, abdominal discomfort or urinary symptoms.

For an established problem, the discussion can review previous examination findings and scan reports. State what is different now and whether planned follow-up has happened. A report relating to an earlier episode should not be used to dismiss a new lump or a change on the other side.

What cannot be done remotely

A doctor cannot feel the testicle, locate a lump accurately or assess its blood supply over the telephone. Examination and sometimes an ultrasound are needed. A verbal description cannot reliably distinguish a cyst or fluid collection from another cause of swelling.

There is no need to repeatedly squeeze or press a painful area to prepare for the conversation. Describe what you have noticed naturally and follow advice about where to be assessed. Embarrassment is understandable, but delaying an examination can postpone necessary care.

What to prepare

• Describe when the pain, lump or swelling began.
• Mention nausea, abdominal pain, urinary symptoms and any injury.
• Have previous scan reports and specialist advice available.
• Explain whether the change is new or different from a previously examined concern.

Sources

• NHS: testicle pain
• NHS: testicle lumps and swellings