Testicular & Scrotal Conditions
There are quite a few types of testicular and scrotal conditions. A few of the common symptoms include testicle lumps and swelling such as:
- A lump in your testicles
- Swollen testicles
- A change in the shape of your testicles
- A change in the way your testicles feel
- One testicle that has become bigger than the other
- Aching or discomfort in your testicles that does not go away
Some common disorders and conditions are:
Epididymitis
Epididymitis is an inflammation or an infection in the epididymis, which is the long tube at the back of the testicles. It can be caused due to a sexually transmitted infection, an injury, a urinary tract infection, or a side-effect of an operation and other problems.
Symptoms:
- Pain
- Swelling of the testicles or scrotum
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
Hydrocele
Hydrocele is a collection of fluid in the sack along the spermatic cord within the scrotum. It can affect both testicles, and it can cause swelling in the scrotum and the groin. Hydrocele is not usually painful or harmful, and it may not need treatment. However, any swelling in the scrotum should be evaluated by your medical practitioner.
The fluid collects in the sheath (the cover) of the testicle itself. It is not loose in the scrotum and it moves with the testicle.
Symptoms:
- Swelling
- Mild pain
- Tenderness
- Redness of the scrotum
Varicocele
A varicocele is an enlarged or dilated vein in the scrotum. On examination, it may feel like a mesh around the testicle. It is usually painless and harmless; however, this condition may affect sperm production and quality. This may lead to infertility.
Symptoms:
- Pain
- Swelling
Orchitis
Orchitis is the inflammation of one or both testicles. It can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection such as a urinary tract infection, or sexually transmitted infections (e.g. Gonorrhea and chlamydia). Most of the time it can be treated with antibiotics.
Symptoms:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Infertility