What is Scrotal Swelling

Scrotal swelling refers to a condition in which the sac of skin that contains the testes (scrotum) is enlarged or swollen. Many things can cause the scrotum to enlarge or swell, including:

• Fluid around the testicle (hydrocele).
• A weakened area in the muscles around the groin (hernia).
• An enlarged vein around the testicle (varicocele).
• An injury.
• An infection.
• Certain medical treatments.
• Certain medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure.
• A recent genital surgery or procedure.
• A twisting of the spermatic cord that cuts off blood supply (testicular torsion).
• Testicular cancer.

Scrotal swelling can happen along with scrotal pain.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Until the swelling goes away:
  • Rest. The best position to rest in is to lie down.
  • Limit activity.
• Put ice on the scrotum:
  • Put ice in a plastic bag.
  • Place a towel between your skin and the bag.
  • Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times a day for 1–2 days.
• Place a rolled towel under your testicles for support.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing or an athletic support cup for comfort.
• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
• Perform a monthly self-exam of the scrotum and penis. Feel for changes. Ask your health care provider how to perform a monthly self-exam if you are unsure.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You have a sudden pain that is persistent and does not improve.
• You have a heavy feeling or notice fluid in the scrotum.
• You have pain or burning while urinating.
• You have blood in your urine or semen.
• You feel a lump around the testicle.
• You notice that one testicle is larger than the other. Keep in mind that a small difference in size is normal.
• You have a persistent dull ache or pain in your groin or scrotum.

Get help right away if:

• The pain does not go away.
• The pain becomes severe.
• You have a fever or chills.
• You have pain or vomiting that cannot be controlled.
• One or both sides of the scrotum are very red and swollen.
• There is redness spreading upward from your scrotum to your abdomen or downward from your scrotum to your thighs.

Summary

• Scrotal swelling refers to a condition in which the sac of skin that contains the testes (scrotum) is enlarged.
• Many things can cause the scrotum to swell, including hydrocele, a hernia, and a varicocele.
• Limiting activity and icing the scrotum may help reduce swelling and pain.
• Contact your health care provider if you develop scrotal pain that is sudden and persistent, or if you have pain while urinating. Do this also if you feel a lump around the testicle or notice blood in your urine or semen.
• Get help right away for uncontrolled pain or vomiting, for very red and swollen scrotum, or for fever or chills.