Scrotal swelling

Alternative names:

swelling of the scrotum; testicular enlargement

Home care:

Ice packs applied to the scrotum are recommended for the first 24 hours, followed by sitz baths to decrease swelling.

If the pain is severe, a towel rolled up and placed between the legs just under the scrotum may help relieve the pain and reduce the swelling. Wearing a loose-fitting athletic supporter is also recommended.

Call your health care provider if:

• there is painful scrotal swelling or any unexplained scrotal swelling.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting your scrotal swelling in detail may include:

• TIME PATTERN
  • When did it develop?
  • Did it develop suddenly?
  • Is it getting worse

• QUALITY
  • How big is the swelling? (If possible, describe in terms such as "twice normal size" or "the size of a baseball" or similar terms.)
  • Does the swelling appear to be fluid?
  • Can you feel tissue in the swollen area (probably hernia)?

• LOCATION
  • Is it only in one part of the scrotum?
  • Is it the entire scrotum?
  • Is it the same on both sides?
  • Note: sometimes what appears to be a swollen scrotum is actually an enlarged testicle, a testicular lump, or a swollen duct such as the vas deferens.

• AGGRAVATING FACTORS
  • Have you had a surgery on the genital area?
  • Have you had an injury or trauma to the genitals?
  • Have you had a recent genital infection?

• RELIEVING FACTORS
  • Does the swelling become less after you rest in bed?

• OTHER
  • What other symptoms are also present?
  • Is there any pain in the scrotal area?

The physical examination will probably include detailed examination of the scrotum, testicles, and penis. Diagnostic tests will be determined from the history and physical examination findings.

Depending on the cause, antibiotics and analgesics may be prescribed.

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to scrotal swelling, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.