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.

If your testicles hurt and you're unsure about the cause of your testicular pain, it's best to get checked by a medical professional. When you are experiencing testicular pain, consider scheduling an In-Person Visit at your local MinuteClinic. At your visit, one of our health care providers can confirm the cause of your discomfort and determine the best course of treatment.

During your visit, a MinuteClinic provider will conduct an evaluation and physical assessment. They will also recommend a treatment plan. Depending on the severity of your condition or if you’re showing signs of testicular torsion, a MinuteClinic provider may refer you to a specialist.

There are various causes of testicular pain. Some are more serious than others.

One of the causes is epididymitis, or inflammation of the coiled tubes behind each testicle (epididymis). This is the only cause that is treatable at MinuteClinic. All other causes will have to be treated outside of MinuteClinic, and a MinuteClinic health care provider will make referrals if necessary.

The most common cause is testicular torsion, which is when your spermatic cord becomes twisted. This cuts off blood supply to the testicle, causing damage to the tissue and nerves inside. Signs of testicular torsion include sudden, severe pain in one testicle, nausea and vomiting and swelling of the scrotum. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, this is a medical emergency, and you should seek immediate care.

Other causes can include:

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

In most cases, testicular pain will resolve on its own with rest and self-care. However, it's important to still see a healthcare 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:

• 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, your MinuteClinic provider will refer you for further evaluation in a different medical setting.