Testicular Cancer

Testicular Cancer – Early Symptoms and After Effects

It is estimated that in 2018 there will be 9,310 new cases of testicular cancer diagnosed. So why don’t we hear much about it? Testicular cancer is not a topic that is often spoken about openly. The personal and private nature of the disease has a tendency to cause feelings of embarrassment, which in turn leads to a lack of open conversation and awareness. So, on the heels of Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, let’s take a look at some facts.

Warning Signs

There are several possible symptoms of testicular cancer, all of which should be taken very seriously. Early detection and rapid treatment of testicular cancer results in a 97% rate of survival, so it is important to know what to look for.  

Testicular Cancer Warning Signs include:

Lumps, swelling, or enlargement of one or both testicles

Discomfort or pain in the scrotum or testicles

Aching in the groin area or lower abdomen 

Fluid collecting in the scrotum

Although these symptoms can signal testicular cancer, they can also be signs of other conditions. So it is vitally important to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of these issues.

The best way to make sure you catch these symptoms is to make regular self-checks part of your normal routine. Checking each testicle for any irregularities during or after a warm shower only takes a moment, but can make all the difference in the world.

Treatment

Depending on what type and stage of testicular cancer you’re dealing with, the treatment can vary. However, the removal of the affected testicle (known as an orchiectomy) is the most common. Removal of both testicles is rather rare, only being necessary in 5% of cases.

Chemotherapy and radiation treatments are also used in some cases, but are also known to cause additional issues such as infertility.

Living With The Effects

As stated above, infertility can be a side effect of certain treatments. Certainly, the uncommon removal of both testicles will result in sterility. But most often, patients are having only one testicle removed, which will leave fertility intact. Regardless of your options, consider using a sperm bank before beginning treatment to make certain you have fatherhood in your future.

Another common side effect of testicular cancer is erectile dysfunction. This is most commonly caused by the emotional turmoil that can come with a diagnosis and/or treatment. Many men are struck with feelings of anxiety or inadequacy, which can affect their sexual confidence. Fortunately this is easily treatable with a generic viagra called Sildenafil. Some brands like Hims are even make this available online. In the rare cases where patients have both testicles removed, testosterone replacement therapy can be used to combat erectile dysfunction and regain sex drive.

As with any cancer diagnosis, patients suffering from testicular cancer can develop feelings of depression and isolation. Maintaining a network of support is the best way to avoid going down this road, and to know that you’re not alone in this fight.

Testicular cancer affects thousands of men every year. But the stigmas that surround it can be a real barrier for men who have questions about fighting this disease. Make sure you stay in-the-know and inform the men in your life that could be at risk. Together we can spread awareness, help people get checked, and stay healthy.