Are your testicles swollen? (Scrotal Swelling) Let's talk about this in detail.

Sometimes you may feel like one or both of your testicles are a little bigger and swollen. They may even be red and shiny. It's normal to feel a lot of fear and anxiety when you see this. But don't worry. There are many things that can cause this swelling, from simple things to things that need a little attention. So let's talk about this in detail, in a very simple way that you can understand.

First, let's see, what are these testicles?

Simply put, the testicles are two of the most important organs in a man's reproductive system. They are located in a thin, skin-covered sac (the scrotum) below the penis. Their main function is to produce male hormones and sperm.

What other symptoms come with swelling?

Be careful not only to have swollen testicles, but also to see if you have the following symptoms.

• Bruising in that area
• Difficulty urinating
• Pain
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• A discharge from the penis

Why do the testicles swell? What are the causes?

There are several reasons why one or both testicles may swell. Let's look at each of them one by one.

Accident or injury (Trauma/Injury)

If you receive a direct blow during sports or another accident, your testicles can swell with severe pain. The area may also become red or bruised. It is important to seek medical advice immediately. This is because sometimes the blood supply to the testicles can be blocked. You should definitely see a doctor, especially if you have any of the following:

• If the skin is broken and there is a wound.
• If it is severely bruised or swollen.
• If you have blood in your urine or difficulty urinating.
• If there is a fever after the injury.

Hydrocele

This is when the sac around the scrotum fills with extra fluid. This makes it look swollen. Most of the time, it is painless. Although this condition is common among newborns, it can also occur in adults. In most cases, a hydrocele will get better on its own over time without any treatment.

Epididymitis

This is a bit of a medical term. Simply put, it is a swelling caused by an infection in the epididymis, a small tube at the back of the testicle that carries sperm. This causes pain and swelling. It can be caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other bacterial/viral infection. Your doctor will likely recommend antibiotics, rest, fluids, and ice.

A hernia (Inguinal Hernia)

A hernia is when part of the intestine or fatty tissue in the abdomen pushes through the groin area. This is more common in older men. If this hernia extends into the scrotum, it can cause pain and swelling. A hernia usually does not heal on its own and may require surgery.

Varicocele

This is when the veins inside the scrotum become swollen and enlarged. It's like a varicose vein in the leg. Most of the time, it's painless, but you may notice swelling. This condition is most common in the left testicle, but it can sometimes affect both sides. This can affect fertility, so you should talk to your doctor and consider surgery if necessary.

Orchitis

This is also a swelling caused by an infection. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It can range from mild to severe pain.

Fluid Buildup (Edema)

Sometimes, conditions like congestive heart failure cause fluid to build up in the body. This can cause fluid to build up in the scrotum and cause swelling. If this happens, you will often notice swelling in other parts of your body, such as your legs. This is not a problem limited to the testicles.

Spermatocele

This is not cancer. It is a small, fluid-filled cyst that forms on or behind the testicle. It may cause swelling, heaviness, or discomfort. Unless it is a serious problem, treatment is not needed.

Testicular Torsion - This is a medical emergency!

If you experience sudden, unbearable pain along with swelling on one side, it could be testicular torsion . Go to a hospital's emergency room (ETU) immediately without delay.

Testicular Cancer

A swelling or lump can also be caused by the growth of cancerous cells in a testicle. Most of the time, this is painless. Although it is most common in young men between the ages of 20 and 35, it can develop at any age. The best thing is that if it is detected early, it can be completely cured. So, if you feel a lump, heaviness, or change, don't be afraid to show it to a doctor.

What can you do at home for swelling?

You can try these things for temporary relief before seeing a doctor.

• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel for about 15-20 minutes.
• Take a painkiller (e.g. Paracetamol).
• Avoid strenuous activities like lifting weights and running for a few days.
• Rest with the scrotum elevated (e.g. on a folded towel).
• Wear something like athletic support.

When do you need to see a doctor immediately?

If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor immediately without delay.

• Severe pain without any injury.
• Change in the appearance of the testicles (swelling, redness).
• Nausea and vomiting with bloating.
• Fever with swelling.
• Pain when urinating.
• Pain during sex.
• Presence of blood in the urine or semen.

Does this swelling affect fertility?

Depending on the cause, this swelling can sometimes affect fertility. But the good news is that this effect often goes away once the cause is properly treated. That's why it's important to seek medical advice as soon as possible.

So, if you notice swelling, pain, or a lump in your testicles, never ignore it. It's important to do regular self-examinations. If you don't know how to do it, ask your doctor.

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