Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that occurs when the testicle rotates on the spermatic cord, which brings blood to the testicle from the abdomen. The twisting of the cord blocks the flow of blood to the testicle, causing sudden and often severe pain and swelling in the scrotum or lower abdomen. The pain is usually sudden, intense, and may extend to the stomach or make you feel sick. Other symptoms of testicular torsion include:
- Swelling of the scrotum
- Redness, tenderness, or hardening of the scrotum
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain on the same side as the torsion
- One testicle being in a strange position, such as higher than normal or on an unusual angle
- One testicle appearing to be larger than the other
- Difficulty walking
- Tenderness if the area is touched
If you experience sudden pain or discomfort in one or both testicles, but no other symptoms, you should still contact a healthcare provider right away, as this is still a sign of a medical emergency.
