What causes testicular pain in men

Testicular pain in men may be related to orchitis, epididymitis, varicocele, testicular torsion, testicular trauma and other factors. Testicular pain usually manifests as dull, distended or severe pain on one or both sides, with accompanying symptoms including scrotal swelling, fever, and abnormal urination. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly to determine the cause of the disease to avoid delays in treatment.

1. Orchitis

Orchitis is primarily caused by bacterial or viral infection and may be secondary to urinary tract infection or mumps. Patients will experience persistent pain in the testicles, red, swollen and hot scrotal skin, which may be accompanied by chills and high fever. Blood routine and scrotal ultrasound examination are required. Treatment requires intravenous injection of ceftriaxone sodium injection combined with oral levofloxacin tablets. In the acute stage, local cold compress can be used to relieve swelling. If left untreated, testicular abscess may develop.

2. Epididymitis

Epididymitis is common in Escherichia coli infection and is often caused by retrograde infection by urinary tract pathogens. The pain usually starts from the tail of the epididymis and spreads to the entire scrotum. It is aggravated when standing and may be accompanied by frequent urination and urgency. Examination shows thickening and tenderness of the epididymis. Treatment requires bed rest and elevation of the scrotum. Levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules and ibuprofen sustained-release capsules are used. In chronic cases, hot compresses can be used. Recurrent attacks may affect reproductive function.

3. Varicocele

Varicocele is caused by venous valve insufficiency, which causes blood stasis and is more common in the left testicle. It manifests as a swollen feeling in the scrotum when standing, which worsens after standing for a long time and is relieved by lying down. Earthworm-like masses can be seen on the surface of the scrotum. A color Doppler ultrasound of the spermatic vein is required to evaluate the degree. In mild cases, sodium aescin tablets can be used to improve circulation. In moderate cases, laparoscopic high ligation of the spermatic vein is required. If left untreated for a long time, testicular atrophy may occur.

4. Testicular torsion

Testicular torsion is a urological emergency in which the blood supply is interrupted due to rotation of the spermatic cord. Sudden severe pain often occurs after strenuous exercise. The testicle on the affected side is raised in a transverse position and the Prehn sign is positive. Surgical reduction and fixation is required within 6 hours of onset, and the probability of testicular necrosis is high after 24 hours. Injectable phloroglucinol can be used to relieve spasm and analgesia before surgery, and cefuroxime axetil tablets need to be used to prevent infection after surgery. Delay in treatment will result in orchiectomy.

5. Traumatic factors

Testicular trauma is most common in sports impacts or straddling injuries, which can cause testicular hematoma or rupture of the tunica albuginea. In the acute stage, severe pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting occurs, and the scrotum swells rapidly and turns purple. Emergency ultrasound examination is required. For minor hematomas, cold compresses and paracetamol and dihydrocodeine tablets can be used to relieve pain. Severe lacerations require surgery to remove the hematoma and repair the tunica albuginea. During the recovery period, avoid strenuous exercise and wear protective gear.

If testicular pain occurs, you need to stop physical activity immediately, wrap ice cubes in a towel with cold compresses to relieve swelling, and avoid hot water sitz baths. Wear loose, breathable underwear to reduce friction, and clean the perineum with warm water daily. The diet should be light, limit the intake of spicy foods, and supplement vitamin C appropriately to enhance immunity. If the pain lasts for more than 12 hours or is accompanied by fever and hematuria, you must see a urology department immediately. Self-administered painkillers may mask the condition, and it is forbidden to press or rub the painful area.