Testicular pain evaluation

1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Causes of testicular pain* can vary:

• Epididymal hypertension: When ejaculation is withheld or delayed after arousal.
• Inguinal hernia: Swelling caused by a protruding intestine that descends into the scrotum.
• Orchitis: Inflammation of the testicles.
• Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate, a gland located between the bladder and the penis.
• Testicular cancer: A disease that occurs when cancerous cells develop in the testicles.

Another cause is testicular torsion,* which is when the spermatic cord becomes twisted. This cuts off blood supply to the testicle, causing damage to the tissue and nerves inside. Signs of testicular torsion are considered a medical emergency, so the person should find care immediately:

• Nausea
• Sudden, severe pain in one or both testicles
• Swelling of the scrotum
• Vomiting 

With rest and self-care, some testicular pain can resolve on its own. However, it's important to still see a health care provider for a full evaluation in case the pain is due to a more serious problem. This is especially true if the pain persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, swelling or discharge from the penis.

There are several treatments for testicular pain and swelling, depending on the cause. Some common testicle pain relief treatments include the following:

• Medication to reduce inflammation and pain
• Antibiotic medication if a bacterial infection is present

After a full evaluation, your provider will recommend some follow-up steps, depending on the cause of your testicular pain.

In cases that require more than simple pain relief treatments or medication, the MinuteClinic® provider will refer someone for further evaluation in a different medical setting.

If one or both testicles hurt and a person is unsure about the cause of the testicular pain, it's best to get checked by a medical professional. 

A MinuteClinic provider will conduct an evaluation and physical assessment. They will also recommend a treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the condition or if someone is showing signs of testicular torsion, they will be advised to go the emergency room.