Testicle pain
There are lots of possible causes of pain in the testicles (balls). It can sometimes be serious, so get medical help straight away if the pain is sudden, severe or does not go away.
If these symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.
There are lots of possible causes of pain in the testicles (balls). It can sometimes be serious, so get medical help straight away if the pain is sudden, severe or does not go away.
Go to A&E immediately or call 112 if you have:
- sudden, severe pain in a testicle
- testicle pain along with feeling sick, being sick or pain in your tummy
- testicle pain that has lasted more than an hour or continues when you're resting
These can be signs of a serious problem that needs to be treated in hospital as soon as possible.
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 112 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Causes of testicle pain
Sudden, severe testicle pain can be caused by twisting of the testicle (testicular torsion).
This is a serious problem that can lead to the loss of the testicle if it's not treated quickly.
Other causes of testicle pain include:
- an infection (epididymitis)
- an injury
- an inguinal hernia
- a build-up of fluid (cyst)
- swollen veins in the testicles (varicocele)
Pain by itself is not usually a sign of testicular cancer. Cancer usually causes other symptoms like a lump or swelling in your testicle.
Do not try to self-diagnose the cause of your pain. Get medical help if you're worried.
