Testicular Pain

Testicular pain can be a frightening experience.

Pain in the area can be caused by many different sources including trauma, infection and inflammation. One type of inflammation is called epididymititis and can be caused by a sexually transmitted infection or an enlarged prostate. Associated symptoms include a gradual onset of pain accompanied by redness and swelling in the scrotum. Some individuals will experience nausea, fever, painful urination or intercourse and vomiting.

If left untreated, epididymititis can progress into orchitis. The symptoms are similar and include a gradual onset of pain and bulging in the groin and scrotum worsened by heavy lifting. A patient who experiences this type of pain for longer than three months is considered to have chronic pain.

These conditions can often be remedied with a round of antibiotics, ice and rest. Other possible causes of pain are inguinal hernias, or the protrusion of a loop of bowel into the scrotum, and neuropathy.

Since treatment for this type of pain is dependent on a proper diagnosis, the doctor will collect a medical history and may perform a physical exam.

Treatments for chronic testicular pain include physical therapy, biofeedback, hot and cold compresses, and nerve blocks. Medication-wise, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antidepressants, neuropathic medications and occasionally opiate pain relievers can be helpful.