Scrotal swelling
Alternate Names : Swelling of the scrotum, Testicular enlargement
Home Care & Treatment
- Apply ice packs to the scrotum for the first 24 hours, followed by sitz baths to decrease swelling.
- If the pain is severe, place a rolled-up towel between the legs just under the scrotum to help relieve pain and reduce swelling, but get medical attention to make sure it is not a torsion.
- Wear a loose-fitting athletic supporter for daily activities.
- Avoid excessive activity until the swelling disappears.
Call your Health Care Provider if
Call your health care provider if: - You notice any unexplained scrotal swelling
- The swelling is painful
- You have a testicle lump
What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
Your health care provider will perform a physical examination and take a medical history, which may include the following questions: - When did the swelling develop?
- Did it develop suddenly?
- Is it getting worse?
- How big is the swelling (try to describe in terms such as "twice normal size" or "the size of a golfball")?
- Does the swelling appear to be fluid?
- Can you feel tissue in the swollen area?
- Is the swelling in one part of the scrotum or in the entire scrotum?
- Is the swelling the same on both sides (sometimes a swollen scrotum is actually an enlarged testicle, a testicular lump, or a swollen duct)?
- Have you had surgery on the genital area?
- Have you had an injury or trauma to your genitals?
- Have you had a recent genital infection?
- Does the swelling go down after you rest in bed?
- Do you have any other symptoms?
- Is there any pain in the area around the scrotum?
The physical examination will probably include a detailed examination of the scrotum, testicles, and penis. The combination of a physical exam and history will determine whether you need any tests. Your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics and pain medications, or recommend surgery. A scrotal ultrasound may be done to determine where the swelling is occurring.
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