ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION • TESTES AND SCROTUM PROBLEMS
Testes / scrotum problems
151
START
Check regularly for lumps or swellings in the testes, the sperm-producing organs, and the scrotum, the sac containing the testes( see Testes: self-examination, p. 69). The cause may be minor, but there is a possibility of cancer of the testis, which is easily treated if diagnosed early. Painful swelling in the genital area requires immediate medical attention.
What is the nature of your symptoms?
Does the problem affect one or both testes?
ACTION
DIAL 911 OR CALL EMS
! You may have torsion, or twisting, of the testis, especially if the pain is severe, which can result in permanent damage if not treated promptly. A less serious possible cause is inflammation of the epididymis( sperm-carrying tube), especially if you also have a fever.
Pain and swelling
Painless enlargement in or near testis
Generalized painless swelling of the scrotum
None of the above
One
Both
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR You may have one of the following disorders of the scrotum: an accumulation of fluid, a hernia, or varicose veins. However, the slight possibility of cancer of the testis needs to be ruled out.
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW Internal damage to the testes is a possibility.
Have you had an injury in the genital area within the past 48 hours?
Injury
No injury
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR You probably have a cyst in the epididymis( sperm-carrying tube in the scrotum). However, the slight possibility of cancer of the testis needs to be ruled out.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for your testes or scrotum problem from this chart.
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS You may have an infection of the testes or epididymides( sperm-carrying tubes). The cause could be a viral infection, such as mumps, or a sexually transmitted disease.