Can Testicular Cysts Go Undetected for Over a Decade?
Greetings, everyone. I’m a 24-year-old male, and I've had a noticeable lump located just above my right testicle for approximately ten years, which I regret not having evaluated sooner. During my childhood and early adolescence, I frequently encountered injuries in my groin and testicular area. It was around the onset of puberty that I noticed this lump, positioned above my right testicle, likely in the area of the epididymis. The lump feels relatively firm yet has some mobility. Interestingly, when I shine a light on it, it does not appear completely opaque, instead exhibiting a reddish glow. Generally, it does not cause me discomfort, apart from instances of vigorous masturbation or when I wear particularly snug jeans. Periodically, it also seems to swell. Over the years, I haven’t spent too much time worrying about it, knowing it's not typical, but I’ve become accustomed to its presence. Recently, however, my anxiety about health issues has escalated due to an unrelated concern, prompting thoughts of urgently visiting the emergency room tonight. Before I make that decision, I wanted to seek some advice here. I am aware that only a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis, and I do intend to discuss this with my family doctor at an upcoming appointment. I appreciate any insights you may have before I consider going to the ER. Thank you for your help!
Answers (1)
7/24/2025, 2:40:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about a lump that has been present for many years, especially as health concerns grow. A lump above the testicle can be caused by various conditions, including cysts, epididymal abnormalities, or other benign conditions. It's not uncommon for certain types of testicular cysts, such as epididymal cysts, to go undetected for a long time without causing significant symptoms.
Explanation: The lump you describe, located above the right testicle and being firm yet mobile, sounds like it could be an epididymal cyst or similar benign condition. The fact it has been there for ten years without causing you considerable pain is reassuring. The reddish glow observed could be due to the nature of the cyst, but it’s crucial to have it evaluated as there can be other causes. While many lumps are benign, it’s wise to have any persistent changes examined, especially if you’re experiencing swelling or discomfort at times.
Next Steps:
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Visit Your Family Doctor: Since you already plan to discuss this with your family doctor, that’s the best course of action. They can assess the lump properly and determine if imaging (like an ultrasound) is necessary.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the lump (size, firmness, pain) and note any triggers (like certain activities or clothing). This information will be useful when discussing with your doctor.
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Manage Anxiety: If you're feeling anxious about the lump, consider practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, to help manage your stress until your appointment.
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Consider ER Only if Severe Symptoms Occur: If you experience sudden pain, large swelling, fever, or other worrying symptoms, then seeking urgent care may be warranted.
You’ve taken a positive step by planning to address this with your healthcare provider. It’s good to be proactive about your health, and I encourage you to keep that appointment and discuss all your concerns openly.
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