Testicular Pain, Unclear Cause

Home care

Medicine may be prescribed to help relieve pain and swelling. This may be an over-the-counter pain reliever or prescription pain medicine. Take all medicine as directed.

Here are some general care guidelines:

• To relieve pain and swelling, apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 10 minutes at a time. Continue this on and off for 1 to 2 days. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a thin towel. Don't put ice or an ice pack directly on the skin.

• When lying down, place a small, rolled towel under your scrotum. When moving around, wear a jockstrap (athletic supporter) or supportive underwear. These will help support and protect your testicles.

• If it hurts to walk, walk as little as possible until you feel better.

• Don't do any strenuous activity until you feel better.

• Don't have sex until you feel better.

• If you have severe pain in the testicle, get care right away. Delay may lead to lifelong (permanent) loss of the testicle’s function.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.

When to get medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider

• Pain gets worse or you have severe pain

• Swollen testicle or scrotum

• A lump in the scrotum

• Warm and red scrotum (signs of infection)

• Nausea and vomiting

• Belly pain or swelling

• Trouble peeing

• Leg numbness or weakness

• Testicle shrinks

• Blood in your urine