Perhaps
the most common testicular problem is torsion of a testicle.
This condition usually occurs in childhood and the teenage
years, but can occur in men of any age. Some men are predisposed
to testicular torsion as a result of inadequate connective
tissue within the scrotum itself, but testicular torsion
can happen to anyone with testicles.
The
term “torsion” actually refers to impaired blood
flow. The impaired blow flow occurs when a testicle twists
around on the spermatic cord, which carries the spermatic
artery, and cuts off its own blood supply.
Testicular
torsion can actually happen spontaneously and for no apparent
reason. Sometimes it even occurs during sleep. Oddly enough,
the cord can untwist by itself before you get to the urologist
or other health care provider. However, if it happened to
you once, you are most likely at risk for this to occur
again and most urologists would probably recommend that
surgery is needed to repair the testicle, or both testicles.
In adult
men the testicle torsion condition is often a result of
trauma to the scrotum, or from strenuous physical exertion.
For example: A softball, baseball, or golf ball hits a man
hard in the scrotum and causes the torsion. (I had a patient
who was the victim of a hard-hit softball to his groin).
Being kneed or kicked in the testicles can also cause testicular
torsion. The pain of torsion is actually worse than the
kick that causes the torsion, so hopefully you will know
not to ignore this! (Ouch! And I’m a woman.)
Nausea,
vomiting, and dizziness are often present when there is
an absence of blood supply to the testicle or if the injury
is sudden. Fainting can also occur.
Testicular
torsion is considered a medical emergency and usually requires
surgery within four to six hours if the testicle is to be
saved. An ultrasound of the scrotum most often confirms
this diagnosis by showing the absence of blood flowing to
the testicle.
A surgeon,
or urologist, sometimes will stitch the testicle in place
so the torsion doesn't reoccur. If the condition is diagnosed
quickly and immediately corrected, the testicle may continue
to function properly.
After
six hours of torsion, the chances that the testicle will
need to be removed increases. Sometimes even with less than
six hours of torsion, the testicle may lose its ability
to function. (Remember, you only need one testicle to produce
testosterone and to father a child. Testosterone is also
produced by the adrenal glands.)
How
will you recognize this situation? As the testicle's blood
supply is reduced, it gradually turns red, then purple and
eventually blue. That’s when the pain becomes excruciating
and medical help is essential!
When
engaging in any sport with a fast-moving object, guys should
either wear cup or avoid trauma to the scrotum (in other
words, never play goalie, catcher or pitcher without a cup).
Remember, this condition is a surgical emergency. If symptoms
of testicular torsion occur seek emergency treatment promptly.
Call 911 in the United States, if you are in too much pain
to drive. Somehow get to your nearest emergency room.
Regardless
of your age, if you have these symptoms, seek medical attention
promptly
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