Blog Archive

Fit to be tied (Testicular Torsion)

Posted by HIM on Friday June 19th, 2009

Could you imagine waking up with your nuts tied in a knot? It could happen! ...well almost. Your nuts are suspended by spermatic cords within your sack (not a big revelation if you’ve ever played with your balls). It is possible that your nut could twist around abnormally and cut the blood supply to your balls – this lovely condition is called “testicular torsion”.

The condition is painful (as you could well imagine), and prompt treatment is required in order that permanent damage be avoided… you don’t want gangrene of the nuts to set in. Testicular torsion occurs most often in younger guys from about 14 – 18 years so watch out if you’re in this age range. If you’re older than that, let your nephew and your cousins know that the testi-twist could happen to them! (And just because you’re older doesn’t mean it can’t happen, it’s just less likely).

Just writing this makes my nuts ache… so I’m going to end it here. Guys, if you ever suspect something strange is going off with your health get it checked out by a doctor. Don’t wait and see if it gets worse because it just might.

SYMPTOMS OF A TWISTER

Sudden severe pain in your bag, usually on one side (especially after physical activity or during sleep)
Elevation of one testicle (one is supposed to be a little higher but if you notice a change it could be a sign)
Swelling of your sack
Nausea and vomiting
Fever
Light-headedness

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO

Time is of the essence – go to the emergency room… now! If you’re lucky, the doctor might be able to massage your nut back in place, but it is very possible that the condition will need surgery.