Testicles & Scrotum
Why is one of my testicles swollen?
What is the short answer?
Causes include infection, fluid buildup, a hernia, or rarely, cancer.
When should I make an appointment?
Otherwise, get checked soon.
What happens at a visit?
Our two Gwinnett offices each include a surgery center: Snellville at 1557 Janmar Rd, Snellville, GA 30078 and Lawrenceville at 501 Crown Pointe Way, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. Let us know which part of the county you call home, and we’ll take it from there.
How do our urologists approach this?
Testicle pain that comes on suddenly and hard needs the ER right away. For swelling that comes on more slowly, our Gwinnett urologists find the cause with a gentle exam and usually an ultrasound. Infection, fluid around the testicle and a hernia are common causes. A lump in the testicle itself always gets prompt attention.
What happens at a visit?
We’ll ask when the swelling started and whether it hurts, and about fever or urinary symptoms. An ultrasound is often part of the visit or follows soon after. We’ll go over the findings and the plan with you privately.
How should I prepare?
Note when the swelling began and whether it has changed, and tell us about any injury, fever or urinary symptoms. Bring your medicine list and any earlier ultrasound reports. Mention any recent injury.
When should I call?
Call us if the swelling grows or you feel a firm lump. If the pain is sudden and severe, go to the ER now.
What do patients often ask?
These are the questions we hear most, each with a short answer.
Can swelling go away on its own?
Some fluid collections are harmless and settle down, but we can’t tell that without an exam. Please let us check rather than wait it out.
Is an ultrasound uncomfortable?
No. It uses gel and a small handheld probe on the skin of the scrotum, with no needles or radiation.
Should I check myself at home?
Yes. Getting to know how your testicles normally feel makes it easier to notice a change, and any new lump is worth a call.
Is there a video on this?
This Advanced Urology episode is about knowing the signs of testicular cancer and getting checked.
What should I read next?
Educational content; your own care plan comes from a visit. Back to the reading room