What are the Signs of Testicular Cancer?
Men themselves, not doctors, find most testicular cancers as a painless lump or an enlargement or hardening of the testicle, this is why regular self-exams are so important. If you do notice any lumps or changes it is important to see a doctor immediately. Many men with testicular cancer do not feel ill and many times there is no pain involved.
Other Signs of Testicular Cancer are:
- Any enlargement of a testicle
- A significant loss of size in one of the testicles
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- A dull ache in the lower abdomen, back or in the groin
- A sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
- Pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum
- Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts
Are You a Man? THEN SELF EXAM!!!
Monthly self-testicular exams are important to notice changes in one’s testicles. Most testicular cancers are found by men themselves or their partner, very few are found by a physician. Self-testicular exams allow you to become familiar with your testicles thus making it easier to notice any changes. If you do notice any changes then see a doctor immediately.
It is best to do the self-testicular exam during or right after a warm shower or bath. The warmth relaxes the scrotum making the exam easier. Don’t be alarmed if one testicle seems slightly larger than the other, that’s normal. It is also normal that one testicle will hang lower than the other.