Testicular Pain (Epididymitis): UK Online Doctor Guide
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- Testicular pain has many causes — some are emergencies.
- Sudden severe pain in a young man may be testicular torsion — A&E immediately.
- Epididymitis is infection of the tube behind the testicle, often bacterial.
- Antibiotics treat most cases of epididymitis.
- An online GP can advise on next steps.
Causes
- Testicular torsion — twisted testicle, sudden severe pain. Surgical emergency.
- Epididymitis — bacterial infection (often UTI bacteria, sometimes STI).
- Hydrocele/varicocele — fluid or varicose veins.
- Trauma.
- Testicular cancer — usually painless lump.
When to act fast
Sudden severe testicular pain — especially in young men — needs A&E within hours to save the testicle. Do not wait for an appointment.
Treatment of epididymitis
- Antibiotics — choice depends on likely cause (e.g. ofloxacin for STI-related, or trimethoprim for UTI-related).
- Pain relief, scrotal support, ice packs.
- Recovery often takes weeks.
Red flags — when to seek urgent help
Call 999 or go to A&E if you experience any of the following:
- Sudden severe testicular pain (possible torsion — A&E NOW)
- Painless testicular lump (possible cancer — urgent referral)
- Fever and severe symptoms
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about epididymo-orchitis.
How an online doctor can help
Related articles
UTI / Cystitis: Symptoms, Treatment & Online Doctor in the UK
Burning when you wee, urgency, frequency? UK guide to UTI / cystitis with same-day online doctor antibiotics where appropriate.
Thrush: Symptoms, Treatment & UK Online Doctor
Itching, discharge or soreness 'down there'? Learn how UK doctors treat vaginal thrush and how to get fluconazole or pessaries via an online GP.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Symptoms & UK Online Doctor Treatment
Fishy-smelling discharge or unusual odour? Learn how UK doctors treat bacterial vaginosis with metronidazole and how to see an online GP.
This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
See a UK GP about this today
Same-day video or phone consultations with GMC-registered GPs. Prescriptions, sick notes and referrals when clinically appropriate.