Signs and Symptoms of Scrotal and Testicular Conditions

The signs and symptoms of testicular and scrotal conditions vary depending upon the condition, but there are a few symptoms that are common to many conditions. The most common signs and symptoms include:

• Pain in the testicles or scrotum
• Swelling of the testicles or scrotum
• Lower abdominal or groin pain
• Heavy or achy feeling in the lower abdomen, groin or testicles
• Tenderness or soreness in the testicles and/or scrotum

Symptoms of specific testicular conditions

Testicular torsion

The most obvious symptom of testicular torsion is severe testicular pain that begins very suddenly. Usually only one testicle is involved, so the pain may feel one-sided. Other signs and symptoms that often accompany testicular torsion are:

• Tenderness in the scrotum or testicles
• Swelling or redness in the scrotum or testicles
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Elevation of the affected testicle (one testicle is resting higher than the other)

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency and must be treated quickly in order to save the testicle . If you have any testicular pain, especially if it's severe and comes on suddenly, seek emergency medical treatment.

Epididymitis

Usually, the pain of epididymitis starts slowly and builds gradually. Pain can range from mild to severe. Other signs and symptoms may include:

• Tenderness of the scrotum and/or testicles
• Swelling or redness in the scrotum or testicles
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Discharge from the penis
• Burning during urination
• Feeling the need to urinate frequently and/or urgently

Because some symptoms of epididymitis can be similar to those of testicular torsion, it's important to let your doctor know how your symptoms started and how quickly they progressed to help him or her make an accurate diagnosis.

Hydrocele

Typically, the only symptom of a hydrocele is swelling in the scrotum. It doesn't usually cause pain. However there are serious testicular and scrotal conditions that also cause swelling, so if you notice testicular or scrotal swelling, contact your doctor.

Varicocele

A varicocele doesn't always cause symptoms. If it does cause symptoms, they may include swelling or pain and discomfort in the scrotum.

Orchitis

The symptoms of orchitis usually include sudden onset of the following symptoms:

• Testicular or scrotal pain that can range from mild to severe
• Swelling in one or both testicles
• Tenderness in one or both testicles
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever

Hypogonadism

Hypogonadism in adult males can cause signs and symptoms, such as:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED) and decreased sex drive
• Infertility
• Decreased body and beard hair
• Loss of muscle mass
• Osteoporosis (bone loss)
• Gynecomastia (developing breast tissue)
• Fatigue
• Hot flashes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Depression

Testicular cancer

Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer include:

• A lump in either testicle
• A change in size or texture of your testicle
• A dull ache or mild pain in the lower abdomen, back or groin
• A heavy feeling in the scrotum
• Pain (rarely)

Learn more about testicular cancer and how it is diagnosed and treated.

If you ever experience testicular pain, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. Although most causes of testicular pain are not urgent, some can be severe and even life threatening. If you have other symptoms of testicular or scrotal conditions, contact your doctor to make an appointment.

Learn more about scrotal and testicular conditions:

• Causes of scrotal and testicular conditions
• Diagnosing scrotal and testicular conditions
• Types of scrotal and testicular conditions
• Treating scrotal and testicular conditions