When to Seek Medical Care

The symptoms of testicular cancer can also have many other causes that have nothing to do with cancer. If you have any of these symptoms, it is best to be checked out right away to rule out cancer and receive treatment for whatever condition you do have.

If you notice any of these symptoms or any abnormality or change in your testicles, visit a medical professional immediately, preferably a physician who specializes in diseases of the genitals and urinary tract (urologist).

• Fear, ignorance, and denial are common reasons that men delay seeking medical help. In fact, many men will wait many weeks, sometimes even more than a year, before consulting a doctor.
  
  
• It is important to check out any lump or enlargement right away, because cancer of the testicle may double in size every 10-30 days.

Any severe testicular pain or injury warrants a visit to a hospital emergency department. A change in the appearance or an examination of the testicle should prompt a visit to your health care provider.

If you do not have a regular health care provider, ask family members and friends for a referral. If that doesn't work, services are available to help you find a urologist.

• Many local and state medical societies can provide a list, as can some hospitals.
  
  
• The Web site of the American Urological Association can help you find a urologist in your area. Go to the Web site and enter your town and state.