Hello Doctor,
I have had an issue for around 4 months: one of my testicles hangs lower than the other and has a soft lump on it. However, I don’t feel any pain, and the lump feels very slight—it might even just be veins. I’m not able to consult a doctor in person right now, so I’m reaching out here. I don’t have any other problems and have normal erections as usual. Should I be concerned?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr.Galen. Please find the response to your query below.
The presence of a soft lump on one testicle, along with the observation that one hangs lower than the other, can be concerning. However, many testicular lumps are benign and not indicative of serious conditions. Here are some common causes of testicular lumps:
-
Hydrocele: A fluid-filled sac around a testicle, usually painless and often resolving on its own. If it grows too large or becomes symptomatic, surgery may be needed.
-
Epididymal Cyst: A harmless, fluid-filled cyst in the epididymis, often asymptomatic.
-
Varicocele: Enlarged veins within the scrotum, causing a feeling of heaviness but typically requiring no treatment unless symptoms worsen.
-
Testicular Cancer: Although most lumps aren’t cancerous, a lump that feels hard or causes changes in size or firmness could be a warning sign. Cancerous lumps may also come with additional symptoms like discomfort or changes in the testicle’s shape.
-
Infections (Epididymitis/Orchitis): These can cause swelling and tenderness, typically accompanied by pain, fever, or discharge.
Although you report no pain and can perform normal activities, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider to ensure an accurate diagnosis. While self-examination is helpful, only a medical professional can give you definitive answers through a physical exam and possibly imaging tests, such as an ultrasound. In the meantime, regularly performing self-exams to monitor any changes, documenting changes over time, and seeking medical advice as soon as possible are all important steps for managing your health. Early diagnosis is essential if treatment is needed, and a consultation with a healthcare provider can help rule out potential concerns, especially given the duration of your symptoms.
Thanks.
Ask Multiple Doctors Online for Just $5!
Ask Now