Orchitis is a painful swelling of one or both testicles, usually triggered by a viral or bacterial infection. It can start suddenly or build over a day or two, turning a normal day into a careful waddle.
The first sign is a deep, heavy ache in the ball. It feels like someone kicked you hours ago, but the throb keeps growing.
Red, shiny skin follows. The scrotum on the sore side turns lobster-colored and feels warmer than the other half.
Swelling balloons the sac. One testicle may double in size and feel tight, as if the skin is stretched over a water balloon.
Fever and chills ride along. Your temperature climbs, you feel cold one minute and hot the next, and the ache shoots into the groin or lower belly.
Sex or any touch becomes off-limits. Even the weight of underwear or a light bump can feel like a fresh kick.
If swelling is severe, the penis may retract slightly, and you feel constant pressure in the lower abdomen.
| Symptom | What You Feel | Quick Check |
|---|---|---|
| Ache | Deep throb, kicked feel | Growing hours |
| Skin | Red, shiny, warm | Mirror compare |
| Size | Balloon sac, tight skin | Double size |
| Fever | Temp climb, chills | Shoots to groin |
| Touch | Underwear weight hurts | Light bump test |
| Belly | Low pressure, penis shrinks | With swelling |