Testicular cancer might not be a comfortable topic, but talking with your doctor could literally save your life. The good news? Testicular cancer is highly treatable, especially when detected early. The challenge? Many men ignore the warning signs because they’re embarrassed, scared or simply don’t know what to look for.
Testicular cancer primarily affects younger men, with most cases occurring between ages 15 and 35. But here’s the encouraging part—this cancer has a survival rate of almost 100% when it’s detected early. Let’s break down the eight early signs every man should know.
1. A Painless Lump or Mass
This is the most common sign of testicular cancer. About 90% of men with testicular cancer notice a lump on their testicle. It might be as small as a pea or as large as a marble, and here’s the key detail—it’s usually painless. The lump typically feels different from the rest of the testicle—firmer, harder or just “off” compared to what you’re used to feeling.
Many men expect cancer to hurt, so they dismiss painless lumps. Don’t make this mistake. Any new lump or mass deserves immediate medical attention, regardless of whether it causes discomfort.
2. Swelling or Enlargement of a Testicle
Sometimes, instead of a painless lump, you might notice that one testicle has become noticeably larger than the other. While it’s normal for testicles to be slightly different in size, a sudden or significant change warrants investigation. Any noticeable increase in testicle size—especially if it’s accompanied by a feeling of heaviness—should prompt a visit to your doctor.
3. A Feeling of Heaviness in the Scrotum
Many men with testicular cancer describe a sensation of heaviness or fullness in the scrotum. The sensation isn’t necessarily painful—it’s more like awareness that something has changed. Some men compare it to the feeling of having something in their pocket.
4. A Dull Ache in the Lower Abdomen or Groin
Testicular cancer often presents as a persistent, dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, but it may appear as back pain in later stages. This isn’t the sharp pain you might associate with injury—it’s more like a nagging discomfort that doesn’t go away with rest or position changes.
Some men describe the pain as similar to the ache from a pulled muscle that never quite heals. Don’t wait to seek medical advice if you experience persistent discomfort in these areas, especially when combined with other symptoms.
5. Sudden Collection of Fluid in the Scrotum
A hydrocele—fluid buildup in the sac of skin surrounding the testicle—can sometimes be an early sign of testicular cancer. This fluid collection might make the scrotum appear swollen or enlarged, and it might feel soft or squishy compared to the firmness of a tumor. Sometimes, you can see through the swelling when a light is shone on it, which helps doctors distinguish fluid from solid masses.
6. Breast Tenderness or Growth
Some types of testicular cancer produce human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), which can cause breast tenderness, swelling or even visible breast tissue growth in men.
While this symptom of testicular cancer is less common than the others, it’s often indicative of a worse prognosis. If you notice unexplained breast changes, discuss them with your doctor right away.
7. Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain
When testicular cancer spreads to the lymph nodes in the chest or lungs, it can cause respiratory symptoms. Shortness of breath, a cough or chest pain—especially when combined with other testicular symptoms—can indicate that cancer has spread beyond the testicle.
These symptoms may occur because cancer cells have reached the lungs. While these signs suggest more advanced disease, testicular cancer remains highly treatable even when it has spread.
What Are Your Testicular Cancer Risk Factors?
Symptoms of testicular cancer aren’t always obvious. That’s why knowing your risk can help you stay vigilant for symptoms:
- Age: The risk of testicular cancer is most common between the ages of 15 and 35.
- Family history of testicular cancer: A family history of testicular cancer, especially in a father or brother, increases your risk because genetic factors can play a role.
- HIV infection: An HIV infection can increase your risk of developing testicular cancer.
- Personal history: A personal history of testicular cancer in one testicle means you have a higher risk of developing it in the other testicle.
- Race: Testicular cancer is more common in white men than in men of other racial groups.
- Undescended testicle: A history of having an undescended testicle, also known as cryptorchidism, can increase your risk.
The Power of Self-Examination
How do you check yourself for testicular cancer? Here’s how to do it properly:
- When: Perform monthly exams, ideally after a warm shower when the scrotal skin is relaxed.
- How: Gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers.
- What to feel for: Feel for lumps, changes in size or areas that feel different. The epididymis (sperm-carrying tube) is located on top and behind each testicle, and it is normal—so don’t mistake it for a cancerous lump.
Remember, you’re looking for changes from what’s normal for you. Monthly exams help you become familiar with how your testicles normally feel, so you notice any changes if they develop.
Your Next Steps
Modern treatment for testicular cancer is remarkably successful. Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, treatment might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Testicular cancer has a survival rate that exceeds 95% when detected early, so many men with the disease go on to live completely normal lives.
At Capital Health, we understand that discussing testicular concerns can feel uncomfortable, but our urologists and oncologists create a supportive, professional environment for these important conversations. Don’t let embarrassment or fear prevent you from seeking medical attention. A quick examination could provide peace of mind—or potentially save your life. Remember, most testicular lumps aren’t cancer, but the only way to know for sure is through proper medical evaluation.
Don’t ignore the warning signs. If you have concerns about testicular cancer, talk to a Capital Health urologist today to get an evaluation.