Testicular Torsion - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Dr Sravya, MBBS, MS 

Introduction

Testicular torsion is the most frequent cause of a male genitourinary emergency that is extremely painful.

The two testicles that men have are located inside the scrotum. Blood travels to the testicles along a cord known as the spermatic cord. This cord twists when the testes are torn. As a result, the testicular tissues may begin to die and blood flow may be hampered.

The condition known as testicular torsion occurs when a testicle twists inside the scrotum, cutting off the testicle’s blood supply. The testicle can perish from a lack of oxygen if there is insufficient blood supply, and in extreme circumstances, removal may be necessary. Therefore, it is important to address suspected testicular torsion as a medical emergency. Your testicle may need to be surgically removed if the blood supply doesn’t improve rapidly (within six hours).

The American Urological Association estimates that just 1 in 4,000 people under the age of 25 have this illness, which is rare. Male adolescents experience torsion the most frequently. 65 percent of those with the disease are between the ages of 12 and 18. Infants and elderly people, however, may also be impacted. 

An extremely significant medical emergency is testicular torsion. Call your doctor or get straight to the emergency room (ER) if you experience sudden, severe discomfort in one of your testicles.

The longer you wait to get treatment for testicular torsion, the greater the chance that you will lose your testicle:

testicular torsion

Table of Contents

Testicular Torsion symptoms

Testicular torsion is characterized by sudden, excruciating pain in one of your testicles. It can happen whenever you’re awake, asleep, standing, sitting, or engaged in activity.

Other signs include-

Even if you have no other symptoms other than abrupt pain or discomfort in one or both testicles, you should still seek medical attention right soon. Yet another indication of a medical emergency.

Testicular Torsion causes 

In those who are susceptible, testicular torsion can happen at any time, even when standing, sleeping, exercising, or sitting, and there is no known trigger. It can occasionally happen as a result of an accident or rapid growth during puberty.

The cause of testicular torsion is unknown. The testicle can rotate freely inside the scrotum in most males who have testicular torsion due to a hereditary characteristic. Both testicles are frequently affected by this genetic illness. However, not all men with
the characteristic will experience testicular torsion. Testicular torsion frequently happens many hours after strenuous activity, after a small
testicular injury, or while you’re resting. Another factor could be the testicle’s quick growth during adolescence or the cold weather.

Testicular torsion is more likely in situations where-

when lying in a warm bed, a person’s scrotum is frequently in a relaxed state. The scrotum is exposed to the chillier ambient air when the person gets out of bed. The rapid contraction brought on by the abrupt temperature shift can hold the testicle in that position, leading to testicular torsion, if the spermatic cord twists while the scrotum is free.

Torsion of the testicles in babies and young children

Testicular torsion can happen just before or right after birth. Normally, the testicle cannot be saved in this situation.

To detect and treat testicular torsion in the other testicle and avoid further reproductive issues, the child will need surgery after birth.

Testicular Torsion diagnose

testicular torsion causes
testicular torsion symptoms

Testicular Torsion treatments?

Treatment will be planned according to the cause of epididymitis.

Torsion of the testicles in babies and young children

Complications of Testicular Torsion

If left untreated, testicular torsion may result in:

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, males can acquire fungal infections, particularly in the genital area. Although it is less frequent in men than in women, men must recognize the signs and seek proper treatment. 

No, fungal infections are not classified as sexually transmitted infections. However, sexual activity can sometimes upset the natural balance, increasing the risk of infection.

While vaginal yeast infections are more frequent in women, they can occur in men as well, mainly through sexual transfer.

For minor yeast infections, over-the-counter antifungal treatments can be beneficial. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical attention.

Stress can impair the immune system, making it more difficult to battle illnesses such as yeast infections.