Your testicles, or testes, are two small, oval-shaped glands located inside the scrotum- the pouch of skin beneath your penis. They are involved in producing sperm and testosterone. Most testicular pain men experience is harmless and resolves quickly. But sometimes, a serious condition called testicular torsion can arise. Testicular torsion is when one of the testicles twists, cutting off its blood supply. It’s extremely painful and a true medical emergency. Without quick treatment, the testicle could be permanently damaged or even lost.

Understanding Testicular Torsion

This condition happens when the spermatic cord, which carries blood to the testicle, twists. This cuts off the blood flow and, if not treated quickly, can cause the tissue to die.

While torsion can technically happen at any age, it’s most common in males aged 12 to 18. Some men have a higher risk due to a condition called bell clapper deformity. This is where the testicles are more loosely attached to the scrotum and prone to twisting.

Why Is It So Serious?

Testicular torsion is a race against time.

If treatment is received within four to six hours, the testicle can almost always be saved. However, as time passes, the chances of permanent damage increase. If blood flow is cut off for too long, the testicle may need to be removed.

How Does Testicular Torsion Happen?

In most cases, testicular torsion isn’t caused by an obvious event. The testicle may twist on its own, often because of the bell clapper deformity. However, torsion can also happen after a minor injury to the groin.

It’s important to know that physical activities like running, jumping, or twisting your body don’t directly cause torsion. Torsion can happen while you’re asleep, sitting, or even doing nothing at all.

Testicular Torsion Symptoms

The main symptom is sudden, intense pain in one testicle. This pain can be severe enough to wake you up at night or make it difficult to stand or walk. Other signs include:

  • Swelling or tenderness on one side of the scrotum
  • A reddish or bluish discoloration of the scrotum
  • One testicle sitting higher than the other
  • A visible lump in the testicle
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Frequent need to urinate

If you notice these symptoms, especially sudden, sharp pain, don’t wait. Head to the emergency room immediately.

Diagnosing Testicular Torsion

To determine if testicular torsion is the cause of your pain, the doctor will start with a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. They may also order an ultrasound of the scrotum to check blood flow. If the blood flow to the testicle is reduced or absent, it’s a strong sign of torsion.

How Is Testicular Torsion Treated?

Remember, there’s no waiting it out. Testicular torsion can’t fix itself. Surgery is needed to untwist the spermatic cord and restore blood flow. The procedure, called orchiopexy, involves securing the testicle to the scrotal wall to prevent it from twisting in the future.

If you have a bell-clapper deformity, the surgeon will usually secure both testicles, as they are both at risk of twisting.

If the testicle has been without blood flow for too long, the surgeon may need to remove it. However, with quick treatment, this is rare.

Testicular torsion is scary, but it’s treatable. The faster you seek help, the better your chances of saving the testicle. If you ever feel sudden, intense pain in your testicle or notice unusual swelling or discoloration, don’t ignore it and seek care immediately.

If you have questions or concerns about testicular torsion, schedule an appointment with a urologist today!