Scrotal swelling
Information, Symptoms, Treatments and Resources
Scrotal swelling is abnormal enlargement of the scrotum, the sac surrounding the testicles.
Scrotal swelling can occur in males of any age and may or may not be accompanied by pain. It can occur on one or both sides. The testicles and penis may or may not be involved.
Testicular torsion is a serious emergency in which the testicle become twisted in the scrotum and loses its blood supply. If this twisting is not relieved quickly, the testicle may be lost permanently. Call 911 or see your health care provider immediately.
- Injury
- Hernia
- Congestive heart failure
- Hydrocele
- Orchitis
- Testicular torsion
- Varicocele
- Certain medical treatments
- Surgery in the genital area
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 rolled-up towel placed between the legs just under the scrotum may help relieve the pain and reduce the swelling. Wearing a loose-fitting athletic supporter for daily activities is also recommended. Excessive activity should be avoided until the swelling disappears.
Call your health care provider if you notice any unexplained scrotal swelling, if the swelling is painful, or if you have a testicle lump.
Your health care provider will perform a physical examination and will 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 a 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 physical exam and history will determine the need for any diagnostic tests.
Antibiotics and pain medications may be prescribed.
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