Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Testicular pain has many causes, from infection to minor injury — but sudden, severe pain can be testicular torsion, an emergency where the testicle can be lost within hours if not treated.
Epididymitis (infection/inflammation) — pain, swelling, sometimes fever
Minor injury or strain
A urinary or sexually transmitted infection
A varicocele or hydrocele (usually ache/heaviness, not severe pain)
Referred pain from a kidney stone or hernia
When to see a doctor urgently
Sudden, severe testicular pain, often with nausea/vomiting — possible TORSION, an emergency (surgery within hours)
A swollen, red, hot scrotum with fever
Pain after an injury that does not settle
Pain with burning urination or discharge (possible infection/STI)
Sudden severe pain = emergency. Testicular torsion is a surgical emergency — do not wait to “see if it settles”. Go to hospital immediately for sudden severe testicular pain. MedDroid gives general information, not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
What causes testicular pain?
Common causes include infection (epididymitis), injury, urinary or sexually transmitted infections, and varicocele. Sudden severe pain, though, can be torsion — an emergency.
What is testicular torsion?
The testicle twists and cuts off its own blood supply, causing sudden severe pain. It needs surgery within hours to save the testicle — so seek emergency care immediately.
When should I go to hospital for testicular pain?
Immediately for sudden severe pain (especially with nausea), a red/hot swollen scrotum with fever, or pain after injury that does not settle.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.