RFSymptoms: Safety netting advice
AdultsTesticular pain
DATE LAST REVIEWED: 05/11/2026
When to seek further review
- Arrange prompt GP assessment for a new lump, swelling, change in size or shape, or aching discomfort that does not go away.
- Get urgent advice today if pain is worsening, there is fever, trouble peeing or discharge from the penis.
- If already assessed, follow the specific review plan; seek help again for new or changing pain rather than waiting several days.
- Do not wait for the suggested review time if symptoms become worse, new symptoms appear, or you are worried.
- If you need medical advice and are unsure which service can help, call NHS 111. This includes when your GP is closed or you cannot get the help you need. NHS 111 can direct you to an appropriate local service. You can call even if you are not sure whether symptoms are serious.
When to get emergency help
(Immediately dial 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department)
- Sudden or severe pain in a testicle.
- Testicle pain with feeling sick, vomiting or tummy pain.
- Testicle pain lasting more than an hour or continuing at rest.
- Rapidly developing swelling or severe pain after an injury. A twisted testicle needs immediate hospital treatment.
- Severe difficulty breathing, such as gasping or being unable to speak normally.
- New confusion or not making sense when speaking.
- Being very difficult to wake.
- Collapse or loss of consciousness.
- Blue, grey, unusually pale or blotchy skin or lips, especially when feeling very unwell.
How to spot sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection. It can get worse quickly. If someone is seriously unwell and may have sepsis, call 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department. Do not wait for every sign, a high temperature or a rash.
An unwell child under 5 who has not had a pee or wet nappy for 12 hours needs emergency assessment. If you are unsure and there are no emergency signs, call NHS 111 for advice.


Sources
- NHS - Testicular painhttps://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/testicle-pain/
- NHS - Sepsishttps://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sepsis/
- NHS - When to use NHS 111https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/