Could this be testicular torsion?
Hello there, I’m a 21-year-old male, standing at about 5'8" (176 cm) and maintaining a fit physique with a weight close to 85 kg. I stopped smoking four months back, although I did indulge in some heavy drinking this past Saturday. It's a bit awkward for me to bring this up, but I've been experiencing discomfort specifically in my left testicle. I would describe the pain as a 3 or 4 on a scale of 10—it’s noticeable but not excruciating, more akin to having been gently kicked in that area. It's a mild sting that I'm struggling to articulate properly. From what I know, testicular torsion is typically associated with severe pain, which isn't really how I would describe my current situation. The discomfort tends to fluctuate, but lately, it has been more persistent and has lingered longer than normal. Honestly, I’d usually just ride it out and let my body heal on its own. However, considering I live quite a distance from any medical facilities—being a farmer out in the countryside—I'm reluctant to waste fuel making a journey to town without good reason. Hence, I’m seeking your input on how serious you think this might be and how urgently I should respond. To answer a potential question: does testicular torsion typically start off with mild discomfort before escalating to severe pain? I’ve always thought it would hit hard and fast, but my experience has been anything but that. I think this issue has been developing for several days, and I doubt it started any earlier than last week. Admittedly, I am quite embarrassed to ask about this, and the thought of going to see a doctor about it is uncomfortable. I’d rather believe I’m overreacting and that perhaps the pain is just a residual effect from my drinking fall on Saturday. Just as a side note, I’ve been awake for over a day due to work commitments. This is my second attempt at posting this message, and I’m not sure how much detail I need to provide or what other symptoms I ought to mention.
Answers (1)
9/3/2025, 8:10:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel concerned about discomfort in your testicle, and you're right to seek clarity on your symptoms. While the pain you describe is not typical for testicular torsion, it's important to address any persistent discomfort.
Key Points:
- Testicular torsion is usually characterized by sudden, severe pain, but it can occasionally start with milder discomfort.
- Since your pain has been persistent and has lingered longer than usual, it's crucial to monitor the situation.
Explanation:
Testicular torsion occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off blood supply. This usually leads to rapid, severe pain. While it's not impossible to start with mild discomfort, in your case, this may not be the likely diagnosis given the nature of your symptoms. Common causes of testicular discomfort can range from trauma, infection (like epididymitis), to other benign issues. Your recent heavy drinking and prolonged wakefulness could contribute to muscle tension and discomfort.
Next Steps:
- Observe Symptoms Closely: Keep track of the pain level, its location, and any accompanying symptoms such as swelling, fever, or changes in urination.
- Practice Self-Care: To relieve discomfort, consider applying a cold compress to the area for 15-20 minutes a few times a day.
- Limit Activity: Avoid prolonged physical exertion or heavy lifting until the discomfort subsides.
- Monitor for Changes: If the pain intensifies, spreads to other areas, or if you notice swelling or changes in appearance, be prepared to seek medical attention.
Given your symptoms and the fact that the pain has persisted longer than normal, it's essential to stay observant. It’s understandable to feel reluctant about traveling, but if symptoms worsen, don’t hesitate—your health is the priority. If needed, have a plan for getting to a healthcare facility if your situation changes. Let me know if you have any other questions or concerns!
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