Testicle pain: What causes it?

The testicles are very sensitive, and even a minor injury can cause pain or discomfort. Possible causes of testicle pain include:

• Infection or inflammation of the epididymis (epididymitis) or testicle (orchitis)
• Injury to the scrotum
• Impaired blood flow to the testicle due to twisting of the spermatic cord (testicular torsion)
• A stone in the lower ureter, which can cause pain in the testicle on the same side as the stone
• Enlargement of the veins within the scrotum (varicocele)
• Fluid in the testicles, such as due to a spermatocele or hydrocele
• Testicular cancer

Sudden, severe pain in the testicles requires prompt medical attention. Also, see your doctor if you have:

• Mild testicle pain lasting longer than a few days
• A lump or swelling in or around a testicle