Testicular Self Exam

The basic purpose of a testicular self exam is to detect serious underlying disorders of the testicles, such as testicular cancer. The test also increases the person's awareness about the organs and help him detect any kind of changes. In most cases, the main motive of a TSE is to detect the presence of any lumps, which may, or may not, indicate the development of testicular cancer, which commonly affects one testicle. This disease is rare, and affects males between 15 and 34. According to what doctors say, male teenagers must perform TSE, once they hit puberty, or reach the age of 15. It is also advised to carry out a TSE every month, so that any abnormal changes in the testicles can be easily detected.

How to Self Exam Testicles for Any Abnormality

• Before beginning the procedure, it is advisable to get a hot bath or shower. This is to help the scrotum come to a relaxed state, which in turn, would make it easier to detect anything that is not typical of the testicles.
• It is preferable to stand in front of a mirror while you are doing the exam. This way not only you can feel any difference, but can view it as well.
• It is best to work on one testicle at a time, and to make it easier, place one leg on a stool or pedestal at right angles. This way you won't have to bend much.
• Now using your thumb, index and middle finger, begin the exam. Place your thumb over the testicle, and the rest of the fingers behind it. Now roll it between the fingers.
• While you are performing the testicular self test, you would be able to feel the tube that carries the sperm. It may feel like a lump, but it is not.
• During the exam you may notice that the right testicle is larger than the left. This is a normal feature.
• While you are looking for any lump on the testicles, remember that it can be as small as a rice grain or the size of a pea.
• Look out for any kind of pain, swelling or discoloration in the testicles. And if you are able to come across one, then it would be wise to report the matter to a doctor.

Testicular Cancer Symptoms and Treatment

Common signs and symptoms of testicular cancer include:

• Presence of a lump in the testes
• The scrotum feels heavy
• There might be a dull ache in the abdomen
• The affected person may feel a sudden collection in the scrotum
• The breasts may be tender to touch, and this may be accompanied by pain in the testicles.

The stage of the disease decides the nature of the treatment. The primary treatment includes the surgical removal of the testicles. And once the organ is gotten rid of, a prostate organ filled with saline is placed. However, it depends on the patient's choice. In some cases, post surgery, the patient may also be treated with radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

To repeat, if you are 15 or above, or have reached your puberty, then it is wise to carry out a TSE once a month. It is to be known that testicular cancer is not difficult to treat. Unlike other cancers, it can be treated even when it has spread beyond the testicular area.