Swollen Testicle

Swollen Testicle

A swollen testicle is often worrying and could potentially be a symptom for testicular cancer at a later stage. The swelling of testicles can however be caused by a variety of other, not as serious reasons. Although in most cases swollen testicles are harmless and will disappear without treatment, it is important to discuss any swelling with a doctor in order to receive a conclusive decision. Swollen testicles are often associated with increased infertility and should therefore be taken very serious.

Hydrocele
A hyrdocele is an accumulation of fluid around the testicle which makes the scrotum swell up while the testicle remains the same size. The fluid can often be infected with bacteria and therefore cause an infection. Generally hydrocele causes little discomfort and is usually a pain free swelling in the scrotum which goes combined with a burning feeling. It is common for hydrocele to be combined with a high fever and cold shakes. If you do experience pain during hydrocele, a small operation can solve the problem easily, where the fluid is removed from the testicules. If the testicle is infected, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

An infection of the Epididymitis
A bacterial infection of the Epididymitis is usually combined with the swelling of the scrotum. The infection can be painful and can cause redness around the testicles and scrotum; it might also be combined with a high fever. The bacterial infection is usually caused by a sexual transmitted disease (STD), an infection of the urinary tract or an infection of the prostate. In most cases the treatment is with antibiotics and will be sufficient to end the infection and swelling. If the swelling is however caused by an STD it is important to seek professional treatment and advice.

An infection of the testicles or orchitis
A bacterial infection of the testicle, also known as orchitis, has similar painful symptoms compared to an infection of the Epididymitis. The symptoms include swelling and redness of the scrotum and a high fever. The pain and swelling of the testicles can be temporary reduced by the use of painkillers or an ice compress for the scrotum. You could use a special bandage, called a suspensoir which eases the pain by bringing the scrotum higher up.

Hernia Inguinal
An hernia inguinal is a bulging of the scrotum or groin, which resembles the swelling of the scrotum. The hernia has a variety of types and can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as weightlifting, problems with digestion and continuous coughing. It is important to discuss this further with a doctor as certain types may require urgent actions to be taken, most types of  inguinal hernia will require an operation that repairs the damaged tissue.

Mumps or epidemic parotitis
Mumps is a viral disease caused by the mumps virus. Before the development and introduction of the vaccine, mumps is a common childhood disease. Children who have not had the vaccine are still at risk to experience this virus, of which one of the symptoms is a painful inflammation of the testicles. Although there is no specific treatment for mumps, it is important to be professionally diagnosed. Patients are also advised to avoid acidic foods and beverages.

Lymphedema
Lymphedema also known as lymphatic obstruction is a condition of localised fluid retention which causes the tissue to swell. The swelling is not usually painfully and covers the complete scrotum area. Although it is difficult in the early stages for a diagnosis to be made, it is important to discuss this problem as soon as possible with a doctor so a suitable treatment can be suggested. If no treatment is carried out, the swelling will usually increase.

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