What Causes Testicular Pain?
Testicular pain can be alarming, uncomfortable, and disruptive to daily life. If you’re experiencing testicle pain, it’s essential to explore the possible causes of testicular pain and understand when to seek immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.
At Urology of Greater Atlanta, our board-qualified urologists are committed to providing expert, compassionate care for conditions causing testicular pain. We serve patients at multiple Georgia locations and are ready to help you get answers and relief. Contact us now!
Common Causes of Testicle Pain
Understanding the many causes of testicle pain is key to timely treatment. Below are the most common conditions that may affect one or both testicles.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes type 2, and syphilis can lead to pain and swelling, scrotal swelling, and irritation. These infections often affect the epididymis (a coiled tube) where sperm mature, resulting in chronic testicular pain and other symptoms like discharge, pain during urination, or blood in semen.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can trigger severe pain that radiates to the testicles. Symptoms may include nausea, frequent urination, or blood in the urine. Risk factors include dehydration, obesity, and a high-sodium diet.
Testicular Torsion
Testicular torsion happens when the spermatic cord twists, which contains the vas deferens (which transports sperm), blood vessels, and nerves. This cuts off the blood supply, resulting in intense pain (typically on the left side), scrotal swelling, and a high-riding testicle. It’s a medical emergency that may require surgery to avoid permanent damage.
Epididymitis
An inflamed epididymis, usually caused by chlamydia or gonorrhea, can cause chronic testicular pain and swelling. Other symptoms include pain during urination, penile discharge, and blood in semen.
Testicular Tumor and Cancer
A testicular tumor could cause testicle pain, although testicular cancer usually presents as a painless lump. However, a lack of pain should not deter you from consulting a healthcare professional.
Inguinal Hernia
An inguinal hernia allows intestinal tissue to push through the abdominal wall, exerting pressure on the scrotum. This condition often causes a dull ache, worsened by physical activity, and may require treatment to relieve pressure on surrounding tissues.
Orchitis
Orchitis causes inflammation in one or both testicles, often due to a viral infection such as mumps. Symptoms may start 4–6 days after initial illness and often include swelling, fever, and discomfort.
Spermatocele
A spermatocele is when a fluid-filled sac or cyst forms inside the epididymis. While usually painless, large ones may cause discomfort or pressure, especially if irritated or associated with other cysts.
Hydrocele
A hydrocele is a fluid buildup around one or both testicles, which may feel like swelling or heaviness in the scrotum. It’s more common in infants but can also affect adult men, particularly after trauma or infection.
Hematocele
A hematocele occurs when blood pools around a testicle, typically after a direct blow or minor injury. This may result in significant pain and swelling and often requires a medical evaluation.
Varicocele
A varicocele involves abnormally large scrotal veins, commonly affecting the left side. It usually produces a dull ache that improves when lying down. Although not always serious, it may require treatment if fertility or pain is a concern.
Post-Vasectomy Pain
Following a vasectomy, testicular pain may arise from pressure in the vas deferens or epididymis. This post-procedure discomfort can be mild or persistent, sometimes needing intervention to relieve pressure or inflammation.
Medication Side Effects
Certain medications, like antibiotics, statins, or chemotherapy drugs, can lead to testicular pain. Always check side effects and consult your doctor if new pain develops.
Idiopathic Testicular Pain
In some cases, testicle pain has no clear cause. This is referred to as idiopathic testicular pain. Even if unexplained, it’s important to seek evaluation to rule out more serious underlying issues
Conditions Related to Testicular Pain
Testicular pain may also be linked to health conditions impacting nerves, blood flow, or the urinary tract. These may gradually or suddenly produce pain or discomfort in one or both testicles:
- Diabetes
- Prostatitis
- Mumps
- Henoch-Schönlein purpura
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Gangrene
- Herniated discs
These can affect the blood supply or contribute to nerve pain that mimics testicular pain. Accurate diagnosis by a healthcare professional is essential.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Don’t ignore testicle pain, especially if it’s:
- Sudden and intense
- Accompanied by swelling or nausea
- Following a minor injury or direct blow
- Linked with a fever or urinary tract infection
Conditions like testicular torsion, testicular cancer, or infections require treatment and could cause permanent damage if not addressed quickly.
Book Your Consultation Today
Don’t let testicle pain go untreated. Our urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta are here to help you identify the cause, explore your options, and find lasting relief. From testicular torsion to urinary tract infections, we’re ready to support your urological health.
With multiple locations across Georgia, booking a consultation is quick and easy. Call us or visit our website to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward relief.
FAQs About Testicular Pain
If your pain is sudden, severe, or paired with scrotal swelling, get immediate medical attention. This may indicate a medical emergency, like testicular torsion.
Sometimes. You may be able to get some pain relief after rest or a warm bath, but persistent or chronic testicular pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
If you notice a lump, swelling, or other symptoms, schedule an exam to rule out testicular cancer or a testicular tumor. It is best that you book a visit with a doctor to have your testicle examined professionally.
