Table of contents:
- Causes of scrotal swelling
- What signs do you need to watch out for?
- Handling and treatment of scrotal swelling
- How to prevent scrotal swelling
Swelling of the scrotum is a disorder that causes lumps, swelling, or enlargement of the testicle (scrotum) in men. The scrotum itself, also known as the scrotum, is a pouch of skin that is responsible for producing, accommodating, and regulating sperm and various male hormones. This scrotal abnormality can occur due to, among other things, accumulated fluid, abnormal growth of various tissues, and swollen, hardened, or inflamed scrotal contents. In some cases, scrotal swelling will not develop into cancer. However, this disease is at risk of becoming a benign tumor or even testicular cancer.
Causes of scrotal swelling
Scrotal swelling is more common in adult men than in children. Those born with abnormalities in the scrotum, testicles, and kidneys are also at an increased risk of scrotal swelling. However, basically this disease can affect anyone because of the following causes.
- Sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia can cause inflammation of the sperm ducts (epididymis) which will lead to scrotal mass disease.
- Hydrocele or fluid accumulation in the scrotum allows scrotal masses to occur. In normal circumstances, the scrotum only holds a small amount of fluid so there will be swelling if there is too much fluid accumulated.
- Testicular cancer usually begins with the growth of abnormal cells in the testicles which then turn into cancer cells. These cells will cause scrotal swelling.
- Viral infection that causes inflammation of the testicles.
- The nerves in the testicles and penis are pinched.
- Hernia caused by weakening of the muscle lining of the abdominal wall.
What signs do you need to watch out for?
If you experience the following symptoms and signs of a scrotal mass, consult a medical facility immediately.
- The appearance of an unnatural lump
- Pain in the abdomen, groin, and the tailbone that attacks suddenly
- Swollen and hardened testicles
- Reddened scrotal skin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever (if the scrotal swelling is caused by an infection)
To get a diagnosis of scrotal swelling, you will be asked to undergo several examinations such as a physical exam, ultrasound test, urine test, blood test, and computed tomography (CT) scan.
Handling and treatment of scrotal swelling
Most cases of scrotal swelling can be cured with prompt and appropriate treatment. Actions taken to treat and treat this condition vary, depending on the cause of the disease itself.
If the swelling is caused by a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics and pain medication. You will also be advised to rest and maintain a balanced diet.
If a tumor is found in the scrotum, usually the treatment offered is in the form of surgical removal and drying of the tumor. This action is also influenced by various factors such as the risk of infertility or infection.
For scrotal masses that occur due to the growth of cancer cells in the testicles, you can choose to undergo radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgical removal of cancer cells. This choice depends on the condition of the cancer cells, whether they only grow on the testicles or have spread to other parts of the body. In addition, your age and general health condition will be taken into consideration when determining the best treatment and treatment for you.
In some cases, your scrotum doesn't even need treatment. If the diagnosis shows that your scrotal swelling is not too large and isn't causing pain or discomfort, your doctor may just let it be.
How to prevent scrotal swelling
This condition can be prevented from the start. Make sure that you use a condom when having sex to prevent contracting sexually transmitted diseases. You can also use a penis protector (athletic cup) while exercising to avoid unwanted injuries.
You can also do a self-examination once a month so you can detect scrotal masses or other diseases early on. Perform this check after you take a warm shower and stand in front of the mirror. Pay close attention to any rashes or redness on the skin. Place your index and middle fingers under the testicles and your thumbs on top. Examine the scrotum and feel for lumps with your fingers. Don't be afraid if the size of your two testicles is slightly different from each other as this is normal. Generally, the right testicle is bigger than the left testis which is normal. However, if you find an unnatural lump, redness on the skin, or a painful scrotum, it's best to get checked out immediately.
