The testicles are the part of the male reproductive system and primarily concerned with the production of sperms and testosterone (male hormone). The testicles are supported by an external sac referred to as the scrotum. Each testicle has a coiled and tubular structure called the epididymis, attached to its posterior part.
In addition, the testicles are connected to the abdomen by spermatic cord, which comprises of blood vessels, nerves, vas deferens and lymphatic vessels. Testicular pain can originate from the testicles, the scrotum, epididymis or the spermatic cord. Testicular pain may also manifest in the form of referred pain from the abdomen.
What Can Cause Pain In Left Testicle?
There are a host of causes which can lead to pain in the testicles. However there are some conditions which may require immediate medical attention to prevent any damage to testicular functions. Some of the causes for left testicular pain can include,
- Trauma or injury to the left testicle can result in an inflammatory reaction causing pain and soreness.
- Testicular torsion, a rare anomaly which results from abnormal attachment of the testicle to the scrotum. This condition is frequently observed in children between the ages of 12 to 18 years, though it may affect neonates or older adults. While this condition can affect either of the testicles, it more often affects the left testicle.
- Inflammation or infection of the left epididymis can also result in pain in the left testicle. In most cases, epididymis is associated with orchitis (or inflammation of the testicles) caused by mumps. Occasionally bacterial infections can also lead to epididymo-orchitis.
- Renal stones can also result in pain around the testicles, especially those that are located in the bladder or lower.
- Testicular cancer is another cause for left testicular pain. However, in most cases, testicular cancers are painless.
- Inguinal hernia can also lead to testicular pain, due to referred pain from the abdomen.
Symptoms Of Left Testicle Pain
The symptoms would vary depending upon the underlying cause for the condition. The symptoms can be broadly classified into localized and systemic,
- Localized symptoms include tenderness, scrotal swelling, elevation of the left testicle, redness and absence of cremasteric reflex on the left side (normally, on stroking the upper part of the inner thigh, the left testicle elevates)
- Systemic symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, etc.
In addition, bacterial infection is usually associated with urethral discharge or burning during urination, while renal stones can be associated with symptoms of pain during urination.
How To Get Rid Of Testicular Pain?
It is very important to get yourself completely evaluated, since some of the causes of left testicular pain can not only hamper testicular functions, but can also be life threatening. In such cases, hospitalization and surgical intervention may be inevitable. However here are some simple tips,
- Rest and local application of ice packs can help alleviate the pain. This is important to slow down the inflammatory process and thereby reduce the redness and swelling.
- Adequate intake of fluids is essential especially in testicular pain which is associated with renal stones or infection. Water can help flush out microbes from the urinary system and thereby prevent cross infections.
- Add a tablespoon of turmeric to a glass of warm milk and consume thrice a day.
- Consume freshly crushed flakes of garlic with raw honey. Both turmeric and garlic can help alleviate pain and act as natural anti-microbial agents.