A frequent reason for consultation in urology services is a lump or mass in the testicle. This abnormality generates fear in all men since many believe that this may be due to a testicular tumor.
Although a testicular tumor can indeed occur, it is not the first cause of the appearance of a mass or Lump in the testicle. This common symptom can occur at any age and rarely represents a severe health problem. In this FastlyHealarticle, we will talk about the frequent causes of a lump in the testicles and what you should do about it.
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Why do I lump my testicle?
The testes are the male organs responsible for producing sperm and male hormones such as testosterone. These are two surrounded by a kind of bag known as a scrotal bag. The size of the testicles is highly variable. However, we could say that their average size in adult life is usually 6 cm high by 3 cm wide.
The testicles can be affected by various situations and sometimes manifest a kind of mass or Lump that is worth studying to be treated appropriately. The groups that can be evidenced in the testicles need a timely medical evaluation since it may be some abnormal tissue growth, fluid accumulation, or an inflammatory process in the scrotum.
The two leading causes of the appearance of a lump in the testicle are the following:
Hydrocele
It is one reason for the presence of a lump in the testicle; this is nothing more than a kind of bag filled with fluid inside. Generally, this condition is benign. However, this process generates pain in the area. It is common for hydrocele in babies; however, adults are not exempt from suffering significantly when they have already exceeded 40 years of age. The following article explains some of the main home remedies for hydrocele.
Varicocele
Likewise, another cause associated with a lump or nodule in the testicle is a condition known as varicocele; this is the increase in the scrotal veins that are responsible for carrying blood from each testicle and the epididymis. These veins dilate and become much thicker than usual, accumulating blood and creating the sensation of a nodule in the testicle. It is common in the left testicle, accompanied by pain and a sense of weight.
However, lumps in the testicles can be due to other causes that we will see below.
Other causes of lumps in the testicle
Other possible causes that can generate the presence of masses and lumps in the testicles are the following:
Epididymitis
The epididymis is a tube responsible for connecting the testicle to the vas deferens; this can become inflamed in most cases due to a bacterial infectious process related to anal sex without using a condom. Epididymitis is characteristically manifested by the sensation of having a lump or nodule in the testicle, with fever, pain, and chills.
Cyst in the epididymis
It is also known medically as spermatocele or spermatic cyst; it is a small bag that forms in the epididymis; this cyst does not usually manifest itself with pain or discomfort.
Testicular torsion
It is a manageable condition to identify due to the intense pain it reflects; it also brings swelling or inflammation and a kind of nodule in the affected testicle. Testicular torsion is common in boys and men under 25 years of age.
Inguinal hernia
The inguinal hernia is a common condition where a portion of the intestine product abdominal muscle-weakening passes inside the scrotum; this creates the sensation of a kind of pellet or Lump in the testis. It is common in children, the elderly, and people who have a history of having performed any surgery. This condition will require a simple surgical procedure as a treatment to put the portion of the intestine in place.
Testicular cancer
This is the most feared cause of men when they notice a lump in the testicle. Testicular cancer can affect children to the elderly. However, it is not common to see this type of cancer.
The typical symptom of this condition is a kind of Lump or protrusion in a testicle that does not cause pain but does manifest a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. However, in the presence of a testicular nodule, do not hesitate to go to the urologist; testicular cancer is treatable and curable, especially when it is detected from the beginning, that is, when the lesion is small and has not yet spread.
American Cancer Society states that testicular cancer occurs in men between 20 and 34 years. The probability of it happening is approximately 1 in 263, and the risk of dying from this reason is 1 in 5,000 cases [1 ].
What to do if I notice a nodule in the testicle
From the first moment, the indication is a visit to the urologist, the appropriate professional to give an adequate diagnosis and indicate the necessary treatment according to the type of injury. Do not overlook any symptoms associated with the presence of a testicular lump or nodule, such as:
- Sudden and intense pain.
- Fever.
- Shaking chills.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increase in volume in a testicle.
- Tenderness in the testicle
In the presence of a bulge in one or both testicles and other associated symptoms, the doctor may request some tests to give a much more precise diagnosis; any type of testicular mass can cause an impairment in the normal functioning of the testicle.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Lump in the testicles: causes, we recommend that you enter our category of Male reproductive system .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.