There are varieties of things that can happen with your testicles; these things can come on quickly or slowly. Of course, a few things are much more serious than others are and should be noticed early if treatment is to work.

Common cancer

Testicular cancer may be rare but in the UK it is the cause of the largest cancer related deaths and is the US it is the most common solid tumor in men ages 15 to 35. 

The best way to ensure that your testicles are healthy is by doing your own tests or exams in the privacy of your home. You should know what your testicles feel like and notice any changes so you can detect problems early. 

The best way to exam your testicles is do the exam while lying a warm bath or during a long shower. The warm water aids in softening the skin of the scrotum so it will be easier to detect the testicles.

Checks

As you are checking your testicles, you should fell for lumps on the skin or inside swelling. You should hold the scrotum and both testicles in the palm of one hand and notice any differences between the testicles. You will more than likely notice that one is a bit larger and hangs a tad lower this in very normal and should not give you a concern. 

Now, check each testicle one at time, while comparing them to each other. You should use both hands and softly roll the testicle between the thumb and forefinger checking for any differences such as swelling or lumps. The testicles should feel smooth; the only place that should not be smooth is the area where the duct is that takes the sperm to the penis. It will naturally not feel smooth.

What you should look for includes a lump, pain or tenderness, discharge from the penis, blood in the sperm when ejaculation occurs, too much fluid in the scrotum, a heavy feeling in the scrotum, a heavy feeling in the groin, an enlargement in the breasts and one testicle has increased in size.

If you do notice any change you should visit your doctor. Once you are at the doctor’s office he will need to perform a physical. The physical will include a blood test that will look for certain indicators that show a presence of cancer. He may also perform an ultrasound. An ultrasound will be able to show if there are any types of abnormalities in the scrotum. If there is a lump, a biopsy will be performed on the lump. The biopsy will let the doctor know what type of cancer is there. Other tests will also be done to ensure the cancer has not spread to other areas of the body. 

The good news is that 95 percent of testicular cancer is treated successfully. The best cure is detecting any problems early so treatment is started and the cancer does not spread.