Signs of Testicular Cancer Every Young Man Should Know
Testicular cancer is an uncommon but serious illness that mostly affects younger men, usually between the ages of 15 and 35. Finding it early is really important for successful treatment. That’s why it’s so important to know the signs and symptoms. Dr. Natalia Hapych, a family doctor, explains common signs of testicular cancer. She says to see a doctor if you notice any of these problems.
A Lump or Swelling in the Testicle
The most common sign of testicular cancer is a lump or swelling in one of the testicles. Most of the time, the lump is painless, but it can sometimes be tender or sore. You might notice a lump about the size of a pea or larger. The lump usually feels firm compared to the rest of the tissue. According to Dr. Hapych, a lump in your testicle that lasts for more than 2 weeks could be a tumor. Doing regular self-exams can help you find these changes early, which is very important for better treatment.
Pain in the Testicle or Scrotum
While many lumps don’t hurt, some men do feel pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum. Dr. Hapych says this pain might feel like a dull ache or a sharp sensation that comes and goes. The pain might feel like a dull ache or sharp sensation that comes and goes, and it can also spread to the lower belly or groin area. If you have pain that doesn’t go away, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
A Heavy Feeling in the Scrotum
Another common sign is a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the scrotum. This can happen even if you don’t notice any swelling or lump. Many men say it feels like one side of the scrotum is heavier or fuller than usual. This feeling might not seem serious at first, but it can be a sign of testicular cancer.
Changes in the Size or Texture of the Testicles
Dr. Hapych says you should also pay attention to any changes in the size, shape, or texture of your testicles. Some men with testicular cancer notice that one testicle gets bigger than the other or feels different—either firmer, softer, or swollen. It’s normal for one testicle to be a little bigger or hang lower than the other, but sudden or unusual changes should be checked by a doctor.
Fluid Build-Up Around the Testicle
Dr. Hapych explains that in some cases, testicular cancer can cause fluid to build up suddenly in the scrotum. This is called a hydrocele. If you notice fluid building up without a clear reason, like an injury, it’s a sign that you need to see a doctor. It may not always mean cancer, but it’s important to get it checked out.
Lower Back Pain
Dr. Hapych says lower back pain could mean testicular cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. While back pain can happen for many reasons, it’s important to consider testicular cancer, especially in young men, if you also have other symptoms like a lump or swelling. Getting it checked early can help prevent the cancer from spreading further.
Breast Growth or Tenderness
Dr. Hapych notes that sometimes, men with testicular cancer notice breast growth or tenderness. This happens because some testicular tumors make hormones that can affect breast tissue. This is called gynecomastia. If you notice unexpected changes in your chest area, talk to your doctor.
Feeling Tired or Weak
Feeling very tired or weak can also be a sign of testicular cancer as it gets worse. Many men say they feel unusually tired even if they get enough rest. If you’re feeling really drained, along with other symptoms like pain or swelling in your testicles, you should make an appointment with your doctor.
What Should You Do If You Notice These Symptoms?
If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away. Finding testicular cancer early can make a big difference in how well treatment works. Your doctor will probably do a physical exam, an ultrasound, and maybe some blood tests to check for cancer markers. Don’t wait if something doesn’t feel right—it’s always better to be safe.
Regular Self-Exams Are Important
One of the best ways to catch testicular cancer early is to do regular self-exams. Experts say you should do this at least once a month, ideally after a warm shower when the scrotum is relaxed. Gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers, checking for any lumps, bumps, or changes in size or texture. Knowing what feels normal for you is key so you can find anything unusual.
Testicular cancer is rare but very treatable, especially if found early. In fact, the survival rate for early-detected testicular cancer is over 95%, which means most people recover fully when it is caught in time. If you notice anything unusual, contact your doctor to get it checked out. There’s no need to panic—most of the time, these symptoms are caused by less serious issues, but it’s always a good idea to take care of your health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How common is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer is not very common. It happens to about 1 in every 250 men in their lifetime. However, it is the most common cancer in younger men, especially between the ages of 15 and 35. Finding it early makes treatment much more successful.
2. How do I do a testicular self-exam?
You can do a testicular self-exam once a month, preferably after a warm shower when your scrotum is relaxed. Gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers, and check for any lumps, bumps, or changes in size or texture. If you find anything unusual, make sure to contact your doctor.
3. What should I do if I find a lump on my testicle?
If you find a lump on your testicle, try not to worry. Many lumps are not cancer, but it is very important to have it checked by a doctor right away. Your doctor will probably do an ultrasound and maybe blood tests to find out what’s causing the lump. Finding it early is the key to successful treatment.
