Should I Be Concerned If My Doctor Overlooked a Serious Condition?
I’m an 18-year-old male, standing at 5'8" and weighing 170 pounds. Not long ago, I visited the emergency room due to a lump and pain in my testicle as well as discomfort in my abdomen. The diagnosis was bilateral hydrocele, and there was mention of a cyst. When I inquired about what actions I should take, the doctor indicated that surgery was a possibility, though it wasn't deemed essential. As I researched hydroceles, I noticed that my symptoms didn't quite align with the typical presentation. For instance, I am not experiencing significant pain, and stomach discomfort or dull aches in the lower back aren't commonly associated with hydroceles. Although I’ve been somewhat dismissive of my symptoms, I can't shake the anxiety that they may be indicative of testicular torsion, testicular cancer, or an inguinal hernia. My next appointment is scheduled for the 18th, but I’m uncertain if I should wait until then to see my doctor or seek immediate care at the ER. Additionally, I have hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which makes me prone to injuries, given I work in a warehouse and could potentially have sustained an injury. Should I be worried enough to act sooner?
Answers (1)
8/10/2025, 6:10:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about your symptoms, especially given your medical history and the nature of your concerns. Here’s a clear summary of your situation and some actions you might consider:
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Symptoms of Concern: Your worries about testicular torsion, cancer, and hernias are valid given your symptoms. While hydroceles are generally not serious, any new or unusual symptoms warrant attention.
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Understanding Your Condition: Bilateral hydrocele typically presents as swelling without pain, while other conditions like torsion or cancer often involve acute pain or changes in the testicle's appearance. It's good that you're aware of your body and its signals, especially with a condition like hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which can lead to unique challenges.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as increase in pain, changes in the lump size, or new sensations. Write these down, as this will help your doctor better understand your condition at your next visit.
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Self-Care Measures: Since you mentioned discomfort, try to avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting temporarily, especially given your work environment. Use comfort measures like warm baths or supportive underwear to alleviate discomfort as needed.
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Evaluate Your Pain Level: If you begin to experience severe pain, sudden swelling, or any signs like fever or nausea, it would be prudent to seek immediate medical attention at the ER. These could signal a more urgent issue that may require quick intervention.
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Stay Informed: Use your upcoming appointment to express your concerns about your symptoms and the anxiety they are causing you. Ask your doctor directly about potential differential diagnoses and whether additional imaging or tests are needed to rule out more serious conditions.
While waiting for your appointment, focus on monitoring your symptoms closely. You are your best advocate, and being proactive about your health is important. If you have further questions or need clarification about any medical terms, feel free to reach out. Take care, and try to stay calm.
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