Testicular Cancer Symptoms

A change may be felt as a firm area, a testicle becoming larger, or a difference in shape or consistency. Some people notice a dull ache in the scrotum or lower abdomen, breast tenderness, or back discomfort when disease has affected other areas. These symptoms can also come from infection, injury, a cyst, or testicular twisting. A symptom does not establish cancer; a clinician may use examination, ultrasound, blood tests, and further scans.

Book a medical assessment for a new lump, swelling, or persistent change. Note when it began, whether it is changing, and whether fever, urinary symptoms, or injury occurred. Do not squeeze the area or rely on self-examination to decide the cause. If cancer is diagnosed, ask early about fertility preservation before treatment and discuss surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy when these are offered.

Sudden, intense testicular pain or pain with nausea, vomiting, or a testicle sitting higher than usual requires emergency care. Seek prompt review for a new painless lump or enlargement even when you feel otherwise well. Rapidly increasing swelling, fever, or severe tenderness also warrants urgent assessment.

Ask what the examination and ultrasound show, whether tumour-marker blood tests are needed, and which other causes have been considered. Ask when results will be available and how to protect fertility if treatment may affect sperm production.