Blog

Common Symptoms of Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer refers to the cancer of the testes (testicles), which are found within the scrotum, a loose bag of skin located underneath the penis. The principal function of the testes is production of sex hormones and sperm in men. Testicular cancer is relatively rare when compared to other types of cancer, but it is the most frequent type of cancer in American males between 15 and 35 years old. The cancer is highly curable and can effectively be treated even after it has spread outside the testicle. Nevertheless, a man may need to receive several treatments or a combination of treatments, depending on the stage and type of testicular cancer.

Testicular cancer symptoms

Testicular cancer is usually unclear from the symptoms because it shares many symptoms with other problems such as epididymitis and hydrocele. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to have your condition diagnosed so that testicular cancer can either be detected or ruled out. Do not wait.

The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a lump in or on one or both testicles. The testicle may become larger or swollen, and it is normal for one of the testicles to be larger or to hang lower than the other. Testicular cancer may cause pain, but most often the condition is painless. Men having the cancer also may experience a heavy feeling, pressure or aching in the scrotum or in the lower belly.

Symptoms of advanced testicular cancer

If testicular cancer is not diagnosed early, it may spread (metastasize) beyond the testicles and reach other parts of the body, including regional lymph nodes and organs. The type of symptoms caused by the spread of testicular cancer depends on the area of the body that has been affected. In fact, even after spreading to various parts of the body, testicular cancer may still show no symptoms. Symptoms that may occur after the cancer has spread include:

  1. Lower back pain: May occur when testicular cancer has spread to lymph nodes found in the back of the abdomen (belly).
  2. Belly pain: May occur when testicular cancer has spread to the liver or when affected lymph nodes have enlarged.
  3. Coughing, chest pain or shortness of breath: May occur when testicular cancer has spread to the lungs.
  4. Headaches or confusion: May occur when the cancer has spread to the brain.
  5. Sweating for no apparent reason, fever, lack of energy, or a general feeling of sickness.
  6. Breast swelling or nipple tenderness: Occurs rarely but may be caused by the production of hormones due to the cancer.

When should you see a doctor?

Make sure to see a urologist as soon as you detect swelling, lumps or pain in your testicles or in the groin area, particularly if these signs last longer than 2 weeks. Remember that these signs and symptoms may be caused by other conditions that are not testicular cancer. So it is always important to have your doctor check them and advise you accordingly. At St Pete Urology in St Petersburg, Fl, we have treated testicular cancer for many years and have the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat the cancer effectively. We cure most testicular cancers regardless of whether or not they have spread to other areas of the body. For more information on testicular cancer, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

Share Us
St Pete Urology

Dr. Reid Graves, Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis and Dr. Adam Oppenheim of St Pete Urology are board certified urologists in treating urological diseases with the use of the latest technology available. Contact us at our office in St Petersburg, Florida.

Recent Posts

How Effective Are Non-Surgical Treatments for BPH?

How effective are non-surgical treatments for BPH? Understanding these treatments is a complex one, so…

3 weeks ago

How Does Age Affect Female Urological Health?

Some women might be surprised to learn how age can impact their urological health, which…

4 weeks ago

9 Tips to Maintain a Healthy Urinary System?

Given its critical role in keeping our bodies clean, balanced, and functioning correctly, maintaining a…

1 month ago

What Happens If Overactive Bladder Is Left Untreated?

Left untreated, overactive bladder can wreak havoc on daily life. Interrupted sleep, stress and anxiety…

1 month ago

What should you not drink with an enlarged prostate?

Avoiding alcohol and certain lifestyle choices are necessary when living with BPH. Learn what you…

1 month ago

What Do You Do to Get Rid of Kidney Stones?

What do you do to get rid of kidney stones? Explore comprehensive kidney stone treatment…

1 month ago

Follow Us On:

This website uses cookies.