When to worry about a testicular lump with testicular cancer

A lump may be felt in the testicle or beside it, and the distinction matters when your clinician examines you. Firmness, position, tenderness, heaviness, and change in size can guide the next assessment. Infection, fluid, injury, and other benign conditions may also cause swelling, so touch alone cannot establish the cause. Mention any aching, testicle-size change, or discomfort in the groin or abdomen.

Contact your cancer team promptly if the lump persists, enlarges, becomes firmer, or feels different from your usual baseline. Do not squeeze or repeatedly check it, as this may increase soreness. Note when you noticed the change, whether there was an injury, and any urinary, abdominal, or back symptoms. Keep planned appointments and prescribed treatment unless your clinician advises otherwise.

Seek urgent care for sudden severe testicular pain, rapid swelling, nausea or vomiting with pain, a high-riding testicle, or significant trauma. These symptoms can reflect a time-sensitive condition requiring immediate examination. During cancer treatment, urgent review is also appropriate for breathing difficulty, faintness, severe weakness, or new severe back or abdominal pain.

Ask whether the lump is within the testicle or nearby, whether an ultrasound is needed, and how the finding fits your current care plan. Ask which symptoms mean you should attend urgent care, how treatment may affect fertility, and which contact is available outside normal clinic hours.