Abdominal or stomach pain. Cramping. A change in bowel habits – more frequent constipation or diarrhea. Bloating. These are examples of symptoms pointing to irritable bowel syndrome in men. While up to two-thirds of individuals with this condition are female, one-third are men. And for some men, with irritable bowel syndrome, it may also lead to experiencing pain within the testicles.
A recent 2023 review has stated that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has been identified as a potential risk factor for testicular pain. Although the relationship between IBS and testicular pain is not fully understood, this article aims to explore possible connections and contributing factors.
Here are some possible connections between men with IBS contributing to testicular pain:
Muscle Straining
Some individuals with IBS may experience straining during bowel movements, particularly during episodes of constipation. While there is a hypothesis that such straining could lead to testicular pain, scientific confirmation is still lacking.
Varicoceles
Varicoceles, enlarged veins in the scrotum, have been associated with testicular pain. However, there is no conclusive evidence linking varicoceles to IBS. A 2011 study suggested a facilitative role of chronic constipation in varicocele development, but recent research does not support this claim.
Hernia
Straining during bowel movements might contribute to the development of inguinal hernias, potentially leading to testicular pain. However, medical consensus considers hernias largely unrelated to IBS.
Other Causes of Testicular Pain
Apart from IBS, testicular pain can stem from various factors such as spermatoceles, infections, trauma, tumors, testicle thickening or scarring, post-vasectomy pain, pelvic floor problems, lower back strain, and inflammation of blood vessels within the testicles. Less commonly, testicular pain may be associated with conditions like diabetes, abdominal aneurysms, and overactive bladder.
Symptoms of testicular pain
Testicular pain may manifest in different ways, including worsening with sitting, sexual activity, or exercise. It may be dull, aching, or burning, sometimes with pain in other body parts.
Diagnosis the cause of testicular pain
Diagnosing the root cause of testicular pain can be a difficult task. Doctors may order tests such as urine testing, semen testing, testicular ultrasound, and, less commonly, CT or MRI scans. On average, individuals with chronic testicular pain may need multiple diagnostic sessions before establishing a definitive cause.
Treatment for testicular pain
Treatment options for testicular pain vary based on the underlying cause. Potential approaches include antibiotics, pain-relief medications, warming or cooling therapies, antidepressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anticonvulsants, pelvic floor physical therapy, and psychotherapy. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to address the root cause.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Persistent testicular pain warrants prompt medical attention. Individuals should note symptoms, including when the pain occurs, how it feels, and accompanying symptoms. Immediate medical attention is crucial if an man has a fever, increased heart rate, chills, severe pain, blood in urine, or a change in scrotum skin color accompanies testicular pain.
Conclusion
Understanding the potential link between IBS and testicular pain requires further research. Men who experience consistent testicular pain should promptly seek medical attention from their doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncolo gy and prostate cancer 911.
