Testicular Pain in Bangladesh: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Testicular pain is a sensitive issue many men in Bangladesh hesitate to discuss. The testicles are delicate organs, and even minor strain or infection can cause noticeable discomfort. While some causes are temporary, others require urgent medical attention to prevent serious complications.
Studies estimate that sudden testicular pain accounts for 0.5–2.5% of all emergency visits worldwide. In Bangladesh, doctors frequently see it among students, office workers, and men suffering from untreated infections or long working hours. Though testicular cancer is often feared, it usually starts as a painless lump — not pain — but any unexplained swelling, lump, or ache should be examined by a qualified urologist for reassurance.
Symptoms of Testicular Pain
Testicular pain may come on suddenly or develop slowly, ranging from dull and throbbing to sharp and constant. Sometimes the pain radiates toward the groin, lower abdomen, or back — or even originates from nearby structures like the kidneys or urinary tract.
Common symptoms include:
- Swelling or tenderness in one or both testicles
- Redness or warmth of the scrotum
- Heaviness or dragging sensation in the scrotum
- Nausea or vomiting accompanying sudden pain
- Fever or chills, especially with infection
- Lump or mass within the testicle
- Pain or burning during urination
- Discomfort during erection or ejaculation
- Blood in urine or semen
⚠️ Note for Bangladeshi readers: If pain starts suddenly, worsens within hours, or occurs with swelling, nausea, or fever — seek medical help immediately. Prompt treatment prevents complications such as infection, torsion, or long-term reproductive damage.
Causes of Testicular Pain
The reasons behind testicular pain can vary from mild irritation to emergencies. In Bangladesh, common causes include infections, injuries, and blood flow problems. Understanding these causes helps identify when to act quickly.
Epididymitis
Inflammation of the epididymis — the small tube that stores sperm — often causes scrotal pain and swelling. It usually results from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, or urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Pain and swelling around the testicle
- Redness or warmth of the scrotum
- Painful urination or discharge
- Fever and chills
Orchitis
Orchitis refers to inflammation of one or both testicles, commonly caused by viral infections like mumps or bacterial spread from nearby organs. It can appear alone or alongside epididymitis (epididymo-orchitis).
- Sudden pain and swelling
- Fever or chills
- Pain during urination or ejaculation
- Nausea or malaise
Testicular Torsion (Emergency)
Testicular torsion occurs when the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood supply — a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery. Without treatment within six hours, permanent damage or loss of the testicle may occur.
- Sudden, severe, constant pain
- Swelling and nausea
- One testicle positioned higher than the other
Trauma or Injury
Sports injuries, accidents, or falls can damage the testicles. Even a mild blow can trigger intense pain due to sensitivity in the area.
Inguinal Hernia
When a portion of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the groin and extends toward the scrotum, it causes pressure or dull testicular ache. It’s common among men lifting heavy loads.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones may cause referred pain that radiates toward the testicles as the stone moves down the urinary tract. Pain is often sharp and accompanied by blood in urine or frequent urination.
Varicocele
A varicocele is the enlargement of veins inside the scrotum, similar to varicose veins in legs. It usually causes dull, dragging pain that worsens after long standing.
Hydrocele
Hydrocele refers to fluid buildup around a testicle, causing visible swelling and heaviness. It’s usually painless but may follow infection or injury.
Testicular Tumours
Tumours can be benign or malignant and often present as a painless lump. Testicular cancer is rare but highly treatable when caught early.
Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome (PVPS)
Some men experience chronic discomfort after vasectomy due to nerve irritation or inflammation.
⚠️ Note for Bangladesh: Don’t rely on unverified remedies. Early consultation with a urologist ensures safe, effective treatment and protects fertility.
Risk Factors of Testicular Pain in Bangladesh
Testicular pain can happen to any man, but certain conditions increase the likelihood. Awareness of these factors helps reduce recurrence and long-term complications.
- Age: Younger, sexually active men are more prone to infections like epididymitis.
- Previous injury: Old trauma can cause lingering sensitivity.
- STIs: Untreated gonorrhea or chlamydia may spread to the testicles.
- Past surgery: Procedures near the scrotum may irritate nerves.
- Family history: Relatives with testicular cancer increase risk.
- Smoking: Reduces circulation and can worsen varicocele.
- Vasectomy: May cause post-vasectomy pain syndrome.
- Obesity: Adds pressure that contributes to hernias or varicocele.
Local note: Unprotected sex, heavy lifting, and ignoring urinary symptoms are leading causes in Bangladesh. Regular screening and hygiene are simple but effective preventive measures.
Diagnosis of Testicular Pain
A urologist or men’s health specialist in Bangladesh can identify the cause through a confidential examination. Early diagnosis prevents emergencies such as torsion or infection-related damage.
- Physical examination of the scrotum and testicles
- Review of medical and family history
- Urine and blood tests to detect infection or hormonal issues
- Ultrasound for torsion, hydrocele, or tumour detection
- CT or MRI scans in complex cases
⚠️ Why it matters: Conditions like torsion worsen quickly. Many Bangladeshi hospitals offer safe, private testing — don’t delay seeking care.
Treatment of Testicular Pain in Bangladesh
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. In Bangladesh, most cases improve with medication and rest, though severe cases might need surgery. Only a certified urologist can determine the right plan.
- Pain relief: Ibuprofen or paracetamol reduce pain and inflammation.
- Cold compress: Ice packs for 15–20 minutes reduce swelling.
- Warm baths: Help relieve dull pain and relax muscles.
- Antibiotics: For bacterial infections like epididymitis or orchitis.
- Surgery: For torsion, hernia, tumour, or varicocele cases.
- Fluid drainage: For hydrocele or abscess.
- Cancer therapy: May involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
⚠️ Important: Avoid self-medicating or using unverified online drugs. Sudden or persistent pain should always be treated as an emergency.
Prevention of Testicular Pain
Though not all causes can be avoided, healthy habits reduce risk. In Bangladesh, proper hygiene, safe sex, and physical precautions can protect long-term health.
- Use a protective cup during sports or heavy work
- Practice safe sex to prevent STIs
- Maintain regular urological check-ups
- Keep the groin area dry and clean
- Avoid overstraining and lift carefully
⚠️ Local note: Treat urinary or sexual infections promptly and rest after injuries. Hygiene and early medical care often prevent chronic problems.
Testicular Pain in Bangladesh: Frequently Asked Questions
Doctor-reviewed answers to the most common questions about testicular pain, symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention among Bangladeshi men.