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Warning-sign checks

Varicocele: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency medical help for sudden, severe testicle pain, especially with swelling, nausea, vomiting, or a testicle sitting higher than usual.

    These symptoms may be caused by testicular torsion, in which the testicle twists and loses its blood supply.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    A varicocele that appears suddenly, is only on the right, or stays full when you lie down should also be assessed promptly.

    Torsion requires urgent treatment and should not be assumed to be varicocele pain.

    Urgent assessment is also appropriate after a scrotal injury with severe pain or swelling, or if pain is accompanied by fever, redness, and feeling unwell.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if you notice a new lump, swelling, enlarged veins, ongoing ache, or a change in testicle size.

    An examination can confirm whether the finding is a varicocele and rule out other causes.

    Seek routine follow-up if symptoms are becoming more frequent, pain is interfering with daily life, or you have concerns about puberty, testosterone symptoms, or fertility.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Varicocele. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.