Desperate for Answers: 1.5 Years of Testicular Pain
At 29, I find myself grappling with relentless pain that began in my testicles a year and a half ago. The discomfort started off slowly, leading to an intense week of agony before easing, although a lingering unease still remains. Just three months ago, however, I encountered another wave of severe pain that lasted approximately a month, only to diminish yet leave me in a troubling state. Numerous blood and urine tests have been conducted; while they returned mostly normal results, there was an instance of blood in my urine, which seems to have resolved. I underwent a testicular ultrasound, as well as X-ray and CT scans of my urinary tract, all of which showed no abnormalities. Despite these efforts, the medical professionals are stumped, and a urologist has suggested pudendal neuralgia as a possible diagnosis, though I’m skeptical about this. I have more tests lined up, but I’m faced with a four-month wait, prompting me to seek help from others who might share similar experiences. The range of symptoms I've been experiencing includes: * Pain in the testicles * Swelling of the veins in both the testicles and penis * Discomfort along the glans corona with noticeable swelling * Recently, I've begun feeling pain in my buttocks while seated * I also experience a burning sensation in my armpits despite no visible irritation; there’s no abnormality to the touch, leaving me questioning if it’s connected to my other symptoms * Often, the discomfort in my testicles manifests as a sensation resembling "acid flowing through my veins"—distinctly not a burning or electric shock feeling. If anyone has insights, advice, or leads that could guide me toward relief, I would be incredibly grateful.
Answers (1)
12/15/2025, 3:30:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the persistent pain you've been experiencing for the past year and a half. Chronic pain can be very frustrating, especially when the cause is elusive and hasn't been identified. Let's break this down to provide you with some actionable steps and considerations that may help.
Main Points:
- Chronic Testicular Pain: You are experiencing testicular pain along with other symptoms that have persisted for an extended period.
- Potential Diagnosis: Pudendal neuralgia has been suggested as a possible cause by your urologist, which can occur due to nerve irritation.
- Symptom Management: There are steps you can take to manage your pain while waiting for further evaluations.
Explanation:
Chronic testicular pain can arise from various causes, such as nerve-related issues like pudendal neuralgia, as well as other possibilities not yet diagnosed (like pelvic floor dysfunction or muscular issues). The range of symptoms you're describing, including discomfort extending into your buttocks and unique sensations in your testicles, emphasizes the complex nature of nerve and muscle interactions in that area.
It’s also good to note that the normal results from your tests mean more serious conditions are likely ruled out, but it doesn’t eliminate the need for thorough follow-up.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Start keeping a daily record of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any activities that worsen or alleviate the pain. This can provide valuable insights and useful information for your healthcare providers.
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Pelvic Floor Exercises: Consider gently engaging in pelvic floor exercises or stretches. These can help alleviate some pain if muscular tension is contributing to your symptoms. Yoga or physical therapy focusing on the pelvic area may also be beneficial.
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Pain Management Techniques:
- Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress to the affected area may help soothe pain.
- Over-the-counter Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation and discomfort. Use them as directed and watch for any gastrointestinal side effects.
- Avoid Irritants: Try and identify activities that trigger your pain, such as prolonged sitting or certain clothing, and manage those triggers as best as possible.
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Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet.
- Avoid activities that put strain on your pelvic area until symptoms are more manageable.
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Mental Well-being: Chronic pain can be emotionally taxing. Consider mindfulness practices or speaking with a counselor if the emotional impact becomes overwhelming. Stress can exacerbate pain, so finding ways to relax is crucial.
Please remember this information is general and might not replace personalized medical advice from your healthcare provider. Keep advocating for yourself, and don't hesitate to follow up with your healthcare team about your symptoms or concerns as you continue on this path toward relief. If new symptoms arise or existing symptoms worsen, it’s important to seek immediate advice.
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