Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
In many cases, the first sign of testicular cancer is a lump in one of your testicles. Other signs and symptoms include:
- Your scrotum feels heavy
- You have a dull ache in your groin or lower abdomen
- You have pain or discomfort in your scrotum or one testicle
- Your scrotum suddenly swells
- You have back pain
- Your breast tissue becomes enlarged and/or tender
Causes of Testicular Cancer
Doctors are not entirely sure what causes most testicular cancer. However, they do know that it starts when an event causes changes to your testicle cell DNA. These changes cause the cells to grow quickly. While healthy cells die after their normal lifespan, cancer cells do not. These extra cells cause a mass or a tumor. The cells can break away and travel to other parts of your body. The cancer almost always starts in the cells that make sperm.
Who Is at Risk for Testicular Cancer?
You may be at a higher risk for testicular cancer if you:
- Have cryptorchidism (an undescended testicle)
- Are a young adult
- Have a history of testicular cancer in your family
- Are white
There is no way to prevent testicular cancer. Men should be screened regularly in addition to doing self-exams. During self-exams, feel for lumps in your testicles. You should see a urologist if you notice changes that last longer than two weeks.
Where to Find Testicular Cancer Care in Hartford, CT
Greater Hartford Urology Group serves Hartford, Enfield, Glastonbury, and the surrounding areas of Connecticut. To learn more about testicular cancer, speak with a Greater Hartford Urology Group doctor. To schedule a consultation, please call 860-522-2251.
