What's going on when the testicles swell and hurt?

Testicular swelling and pain may be caused by orchitis, epididymitis, varicocele, testicular torsion, trauma, etc., and can be relieved by anti-infective treatment, surgical reduction, and analgesic treatment.

1. Orchitis

Orchitis may be related to bacterial or viral infection and usually presents with symptoms such as testicular swelling, fever, and painful urination. Patients can follow the doctor's advice and use drugs such as levofloxacin tablets, cefixime dispersible tablets, and azithromycin granules to control infection. In the acute stage, you need to rest in bed and use a scrotal support to reduce the feeling of swelling.

2. Epididymitis

Epididymitis is often caused by the retrograde spread of urinary tract infection and is often accompanied by redness of the scrotal skin, epididymal induration, and burning sensation during urination. Treatment requires sensitive antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, roxithromycin capsules, and cefuroxime axetil tablets, as well as local cold compresses to relieve pain.

3. Varicocele

Varicocele is related to venous valve insufficiency and manifests as testicular pain after standing for a long time, which may be accompanied by a vermiform mass in the scrotum. Mild cases can be improved by wearing tight underwear, while severe cases require laparoscopic high spermatic vein ligation.

4. Testicular torsion

Testicular torsion is a urological emergency. The rotation of the spermatic cord causes blood supply to be interrupted, resulting in sudden severe pain and an upward shift of the testicle. The testis can be saved by manual repositioning within 6 hours of onset, and surgical removal of necrotic tissue is required after 24 hours.

5. Trauma

Scrotal impact or sports injury may cause testicular hematoma, and the degree of pain is related to the intensity of the trauma. Mild contusions can be treated with ice and oral ibuprofen sustained-release capsules. Severe hematomas require surgery to remove congestion and repair albuginea lacerations.

You should avoid cycling or sitting for long periods of time every day, and choose breathable cotton underwear to reduce local friction. Wear protective gear to protect your scrotum during strenuous exercise. If you experience persistent pain or swelling or skin color change, you must seek medical attention immediately. Pay attention to supplementing vitamin C and zinc in your diet, and limit the intake of spicy and irritating foods. Regular self-examination for changes in testicular morphology and texture, and annual urinary system ultrasound screening is recommended for men over 40 years old.