Is Testicular Torsion An Emergency?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Testicular torsion usually requires emergency surgery

. If treated quickly, the testicle can usually be saved. But when blood flow has been cut off for too long, a testicle might become so badly damaged that it has to be removed.

Why testicular torsion is an emergency?

Testis torsion is a surgical emergency, because

if it is not corrected in time, the testis will need to be removed because of the loss of blood supply

.

Should I go to the ER for testicle pain?

Sudden, severe testicle pain needs immediate medical care. Call

your provider right away

or go to an emergency room if: Your pain is severe or sudden. You have had an injury or trauma to the scrotum, and you still have pain or swelling after 1 hour.

How do you check for testicular torsion?

Doctors often diagnose testicular torsion with a

physical exam of the scrotum, testicles, abdomen and groin

. Your doctor might also test your reflexes by lightly rubbing or pinching the inside of your thigh on the affected side. Normally, this causes the testicle to contract.

Should I go to the ER for testicular torsion?

Testicular torsion can cause the body part to lose its blood supply, resulting in loss of the testicle. If you suspect testicular torsion or if testicular pain is accompanied by nausea, fever, chills, or blood in your urine, it’s important to

seek medical attention immediately

.

Can testicular torsion fix itself?

Saving the testicle becomes more difficult the longer the spermatic cord stays twisted. Sometimes, the spermatic cord can become twisted and then

untwist itself without treatment

.

Does testicular torsion hurt immediately?

What Are the Symptoms? If your son has testicular torsion, he’ll feel

a sudden

, possibly severe pain in his scrotum and one of his testicles. The pain can get worse or ease a bit, but probably won’t go away completely. If your son has sudden groin pain, get him to a hospital emergency room as soon as you can.

How do you fix testicular torsion?


Surgical repair, or orchiopexy

, is usually required to treat testicular torsion. In rare cases, your doctor may be able to untwist the spermatic cord by hand. This procedure is called “manual detorsion.” Surgery is performed as quickly as possible to restore blood flow to the testicles.

Does ibuprofen help testicular torsion?

Furthermore, ibuprofen-treated animals showed

an improved histological appearance in both models of testicular torsion

. Ibuprofen treatment prevented lipid peroxidation resulting in decreased MDA accumulation in the testes of both models. After I/R, eNOS immunoreactivity was increased in the testicular tissues.

How long does testicular torsion last?

Lasting damage starts

after 6 hours

of torsion. One study found that nearly 3 in 4 patients need the testicle removed (“orchidectomy”) if surgery is delayed past 12 hours.

Can sperm build up cause pain?

The seminal vesicle is a gland where sperm mixes with other fluids to make semen. Problems with this gland, particularly hard growths called

calculi

, can make ejaculation painful.

How long should testicular pain last?

Decrease discomfort:

With treatment, your pain may improve within 1 to 3 days. Depending on the cause of your testicle pain, your condition may take

up to 4 weeks to heal

. Rest: Limit your activity until your pain decreases.

What can mimic testicular torsion?

Conditions that may mimic testicular torsion, such as torsion of

a testicular appendage

, epididymitis, trauma, hernia, hydrocele, varicocele and Schönlein-Henoch purpura, generally do not require immediate surgical intervention.

Can testicular torsion not hurt?

You will definitely feel pain if your testicles are struck or kicked. You might also feel nauseated for a short time. If the testicular injury is minor, the pain should

gradually subside

in less than an hour, and any other symptoms should go away as well.

Can testicular torsion last days?

The affected testicle may become larger, and it may become red or dark in color. Symptoms usually appear suddenly, although in some cases, the torsion can

develop over a few days

. It is important to seek emergency care for sudden or severe testicle pain.

Should I ice my balls?


Never put ice directly on your scrotum

. Make sure to wrap the ice in a cloth. Other home remedies include, over-the-counter pain relievers, (e.g. – ibuprofen), and reduced activity. You can also seek relief by wearing scrotal support and by placing a rolled towel under the scrotum when lying down.

Carlos Perez
Author
Carlos Perez
Carlos Perez is an education expert and teacher with over 20 years of experience working with youth. He holds a degree in education and has taught in both public and private schools, as well as in community-based organizations. Carlos is passionate about empowering young people and helping them reach their full potential through education and mentorship.