Lumps and swellings in the testicles (balls) are not usually caused by anything serious, but you should always get them checked by a GP.

See a GP if you have:

Go to A&E immediately or call 999 if you have any of these symptoms:

To find out what the cause of the lump or swelling in your testicle is, the GP may:

• look at and feel your testicles
• shine a torch through the bag of skin containing your testicles (scrotum) to check for a build-up of fluid
• refer you for an ultrasound scan

Treatment for a lump or swelling depends on the cause. You might not need treatment if it does not cause any problems and is not getting worse.

If the lump or swelling is painful or very big, the GP may refer you to a specialist for an operation to drain, shrink or remove it.

Lumps and swellings in the testicles can have lots of different causes.

Most are caused by something less serious, such as a build-up of fluid (cyst) or swollen veins in the testicles (varicocele).

But sometimes they can be a sign of something serious, such as testicular cancer.

Do not try to self-diagnose the cause of your lump – always see a GP.