When people talk about testicular problems, the first thing that probably comes to their mind is testicular cancer. After all, it’s a life-threatening disease, and it’s a terrible illness to have. However, there are other common testicular problems that warrant our concern.
Aside from simply knowing these problems, it’s just as important to know how you can address them. This helps prevent any further complications and ensure that your testicles stay healthy.
5 common testicular problems men should know about
For the most part, serious testicular problems are very rare. Regardless, it’s a good idea to be concerned if you discover a lump in your testicles, or if you’re experiencing some pain.
Aside from testicular cancer, here are some other common problems men can experience.
Epididymitis
The epididymis is a long tube that sits beside your testicles. This is where sperm cells are stored until they are mature. If the epididymis becomes inflamed or has an infection, epididymitis happens.
The symptoms of epididymis are severe pain, swelling in the testicles, and fever.
It’s usually caused by a bacterial or a viral infection, and it much more common among kids. However, it can still happen to adults as it can also be caused by an STD.
If you think you have epididymis, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor. They’ll usually prescribe antibiotics and pain killers depending on how painful the condition is. It usually takes a few months before it clears up.
In order to prevent epididymis, make sure to keep your genitals clean and practice safe sex.
Hydrocele
Hydrocele is a swelling in the scrotum that’s caused by fluid buildup in the sacs around the testicles. For the most part, this condition is painless and shouldn’t be a cause for concern.
It usually happens if the testicles suffer from an injury, or after an infection or inflammation.
Despite being a low-risk condition, it’s still a good idea to visit your doctor in order to rule out any other possible conditions. If hydrocele becomes too large, or causes discomfort, it can be drained using a syringe or by having it surgically removed.
For the most part, it’s pretty difficult to prevent hydrocele, but wearing protection during sports activities does help.
Testicular torsion
Testicular torsion is pretty rare. Regardless, it’s a very painful condition and usually warrants a trip to the emergency room.
This happens when the testicles literally twist, blocking the blood flow to one testicle. If left untreated, the testicle can actually die because of a lack of blood. It’s most common during puberty, but it can also happen to adults.
It’s impossible to prevent testicular torsion, as many cases don’t even have an obvious cause. However, it could be linked to higher physical activity.
Testicular torsion is a medical emergency, so you’ll need to immediately go to the doctor if you have it.
Varicocele
Varicocele is an enlarged vein within a testicle, similar to a varicose vein. For the most part, it’s pretty harmless abut can sometimes cause swelling.
In some cases, varicocele can cause fertility problems, and even pain, but these are rare cases.
If you have varicocele, make sure to get it checked by your doctor. That way, they can rule out any serious conditions.
Orchitis
Orchitis is an inflammation in the testicles caused by mumps or an infection. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other STDs can also cause orchitis.
Both testicles can be affected at the same time, but usually one testicle shows the symptoms. It’s characterized by painful urination, tenderness in the scrotum, blood in the semen, abnormal discharge, painful ejaculation, fever, and an enlarged prostate.
It’s best to go to a doctor if you have orchitis. For the most part, however, it usually goes away on its own. Doctors can also prescribe antibiotics for orchitis.
The best way to prevent orchitis is to keep your genitals clean and use protection when having sex.
