Swelling and Pain in the Testicles
M19, I have a concern regarding a situation down below, but I’m feeling shy about consulting a healthcare professional. It all started a couple of months back when I noticed a few small, painless white spots appearing on my shaft and scrotum. Although they're minor and don’t leave any marks when removed, they can be quite bothersome. Thankfully, the number of these spots hasn’t increased significantly. I’ve been contemplating visiting a doctor; however, I’m currently tied up with a demanding 60-hour per week summer internship, and the embarrassment I feel also makes it difficult. I am sexually active, typically engaging with one or two new partners each month, and I must confess that I haven't always prioritized safe practices, which I am now regretting. While I suspect I don’t have genital herpes because these spots don’t resemble typical symptoms associated with that condition, the uncertainty lingers. Initially, when these spots appeared, I experienced some discomfort during urination, but that symptom has thankfully subsided. Recently, however, I became alarmed when one of my testicles unexpectedly swelled up and began to hurt. It seemed to emerge without any warning; I woke up one morning to find that one testicle was notably larger than the other. There appears to be a dent in a specific area, which coincides with where the pain emanates from. The discomfort isn’t continuous; it only occurs when the area is agitated, such as while sitting awkwardly or upon touching it. I suspect this might be related to the white spots, yet this issue began to surface only a few days ago, while the white spots have been around for a while. This may sound somewhat misguided, but I genuinely hope this is a treatable condition like gonorrhea or chlamydia; I’m really anxious that it isn't something severe like testicular cancer, herpes, or a similar diagnosis. Additionally, I should mention that I am on Trazodone for insomnia. I don’t use cannabis and limit my alcohol consumption to weekends only.
Answers (1)
7/4/2025, 6:01:29 PM
OpenHealth AI
You’re doing the right thing by reaching out for help and expressing your concerns. Based on what you’ve described, it sounds like there are a few important issues related to your genital health that should be addressed. Swelling and pain in the testicles can arise from various causes, and it’s crucial to get clarity on what might be happening.
Main Points:
- The swelling and pain in your testicle may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention.
- The white spots could be harmless or associated with other skin conditions or infections.
- Your sexual history and symptoms suggest it’s imperative to consider a medical evaluation.
Explanation:
Swelling in one testicle can be concerning. It could be due to several reasons, such as:
- Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis often due to infections (like gonorrhea or chlamydia).
- Hydrocele: Fluid accumulation around the testicle, causing swelling.
- Varicocele: Enlarged veins in the scrotum, which might not always be painful but can cause swelling.
- Hernia: Abdominal contents pushing into the scrotum, also causing swelling or discomfort.
The painless white spots you mentioned could be related to various conditions like Pearly Penile Papules, Fordyce spots, or folliculitis. However, these shouldn’t be confused with more serious infections or conditions.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of the swelling, pain, and any changes to the white spots. Note if there’s an increase in pain, swelling, or any new symptoms like fever or unusual discharge.
- Practice Safe Sex: Until you can see a healthcare provider, ensure you use condoms to reduce the risk of potential infections.
- Seek Medical Attention Promptly: Despite your busy schedule, it’s important to prioritize your health. Look for an urgent care center or a clinic that can accommodate your need for confidentiality. Explain your symptoms clearly, so they understand the urgency.
- Self-Care: Until you're able to see a healthcare professional, try to avoid activities that may irritate the swollen testicle (like sitting in awkward positions) and apply a cold pack wrapped in a cloth to relieve discomfort.
Additional Reassurance:
I understand it can be embarrassing to discuss these issues, but healthcare providers are trained to handle such concerns sensitively and professionally. Early evaluation can lead to better outcomes, so please don't hesitate to seek help. Feel free to ask if you have more questions or need guidance on how to approach a healthcare visit.
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